U.S. patent application number 17/566288 was filed with the patent office on 2022-04-21 for security surveillance and entry management system.
This patent application is currently assigned to 1AHEAD Technologies. The applicant listed for this patent is 1AHEAD Technologies. Invention is credited to Ronald Carter.
Application Number | 20220122391 17/566288 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006107525 |
Filed Date | 2022-04-21 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20220122391 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Carter; Ronald |
April 21, 2022 |
SECURITY SURVEILLANCE AND ENTRY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Abstract
An artificial intelligence (AI) entry management (EM) security
system includes a camera, a microphone, a motion detector, a
speaker, a software platform and a smart electronic device. The
smart electronic device is operable to interface with the software
platform device to provide verification, receive alerts, and
receive images, video and/or audio. The smart electronic device
include one or more of a smart wearable device including smart
watches, smart glasses, virtual reality devices, and augmented
reality devices.
Inventors: |
Carter; Ronald; (Matthews,
NC) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
1AHEAD Technologies |
Charlotte |
NC |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
1AHEAD Technologies
Charlotte
NC
|
Family ID: |
1000006107525 |
Appl. No.: |
17/566288 |
Filed: |
December 30, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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17556483 |
Dec 20, 2021 |
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17566288 |
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17488278 |
Sep 28, 2021 |
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17556483 |
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17469863 |
Sep 8, 2021 |
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17488278 |
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PCT/US2021/039812 |
Jun 30, 2021 |
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17469863 |
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17070739 |
Oct 14, 2020 |
11128840 |
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PCT/US2021/039812 |
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17363262 |
Jun 30, 2021 |
11151825 |
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17070739 |
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17070739 |
Oct 14, 2020 |
11128840 |
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17363262 |
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17363262 |
Jun 30, 2021 |
11151825 |
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17488278 |
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17070739 |
Oct 14, 2020 |
11128840 |
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17363262 |
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63228433 |
Aug 2, 2021 |
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63239934 |
Sep 1, 2021 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07C 2209/62 20130101;
H04N 7/186 20130101; G08B 21/18 20130101; G07C 2209/08 20130101;
G07C 9/00571 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G07C 9/00 20060101
G07C009/00; G08B 21/18 20060101 G08B021/18 |
Claims
1. An entry management system comprising: an entry management
device including a housing securely enclosing a camera, a
microphone, and a speaker; an access point comprising an electronic
lock that is operable to lock and unlock the access point; and a
software platform; wherein the electronic lock is in direct
wireless communication with the entry management device or wherein
the electronic lock is in wireless communication with the entry
management device via the software platform, and wherein the
electronic lock is operable to receive commands from the entry
management device to lock and unlock the access point; wherein the
entry management device is in wireless communication with at least
one smart wearable device through the software platform; wherein
the at least one smart wearable device includes a processor and a
memory; wherein the entry management device is operable to process
visual data produced by the camera and/or audio data produced by
the microphone to determine if an image and/or a sound displayed to
the entry management device corresponds with at least one
authorized image and/or at least one authorized sound for the
access point; wherein the entry management device is operable to
send at least one command to the electronic lock to unlock the
access point if the image and/or the sound displayed to the entry
management device matches the at least one authorized image and/or
the at least one authorized sound; and wherein the entry management
device is operable to cause the at least one smart wearable device
to perform a first action based upon detection of a trigger
event.
2. The entry management system of claim 1, wherein the at least one
smart wearable device includes at least one virtual reality device
and/or at least one augmented reality device, wherein the trigger
event includes a detection of a person, an object, movement, or
audio by the entry management device, and wherein the action
includes the at least one virtual reality device and/or the at
least one augmented reality device receiving audio and/or visual
data relating to the detection of the person, the object, the
movement and/or the audio, wherein the virtual reality device
and/or the at least one augmented reality device displays the video
data via a visual display and/or plays the audio data via a
speaker.
3. The entry management system of claim 1, wherein, when the
electronic lock unlocks, the entry management device automatically
sends at least one message to the at least one smart wearable
device, wherein the at least one message includes a status of the
electronic lock.
4. The entry management system of claim 1, wherein the software
platform is operable to store data relating to the entry management
system, wherein the data includes a number of attempts to access
the access point using the entry management device, a number of
times entry has been granted to the access point using the entry
management device, a number of deliveries made using the entry
management device, a number of deliveries made by different
couriers using the entry management device, a total cost of
products delivered using the entry management device, an average
cost of products delivered using the entry management device,
and/or aggregated data for a plurality of entry management systems
including an aggregated number of attempts to access points using
entry management devices, a number of times entry has been granted
to the access points using the entry management devices, a number
of deliveries made using the entry management devices, a number of
deliveries made by different couriers using the entry management
devices, a total cost of products delivered using the entry
management devices, and/or an average cost of products delivered
using the entry management devices.
5. The entry management system of claim 1, wherein the entry
management device is operable to receive a second image and/or a
second sound, wherein the entry management device is operable to
cause the at least smart wearable device to perform a second action
based upon receipt of the second image and/or the second sound,
wherein the second action includes an action different than the
first action.
6. The entry management system of claim 1, wherein the at least one
authorized image and/or the at least one authorized sound is
associated with a user profile, and wherein the user profile
includes at least one setting or at least one activation status for
the at least one smart wearable device, wherein the trigger event
includes unlocking the access point and the action includes
implementing the at least one setting or the at least one
activation status for the at least one smart wearable device.
7. The entry management system of claim 1, wherein the at least one
authorized image and/or the at least one authorized sound is
associated with a user profile, and wherein the entry management
device is operable to retrieve information from the software
platform based on the user profile and play an audio message via
the at least one smart wearable device based on the information
from the software platform.
8. The entry management system of claim 1, wherein the at least one
authorized image includes a face of a wearer of the at least one
smart wearable device, and wherein the entry management device
and/or the software platform is operable to perform facial
recognition to match the image of the wearer to an identity of the
wearer and to activate or deactivate the electronic lock based on
the identity of the wearer.
9. The entry management system of claim 1, wherein the entry
management device is operable to perform image or video analysis on
a secondary image or a video obtained from the at least one smart
wearable device, wherein the secondary image or video analysis
includes recognition of at least one person, at least one weapon,
at least one action, or at least one sound.
10. An entry management system comprising: an entry management
device including a housing comprising a camera, a microphone, and a
speaker; an access point comprising an electronic lock that is
operable to lock and unlock the access point; and a software
platform; wherein the electronic lock is in direct wireless
communication with the entry management device or wherein the
electronic lock is in wireless communication with the entry
management device via the software platform, and wherein the
electronic lock is operable to receive commands from the entry
management device to lock and unlock the access point; wherein the
entry management device is in wireless communication with at least
one network device and at least one smart electronic device through
the software platform; wherein the entry management device is
operable to process visual data produced by the camera and/or audio
data produced by the microphone to determine if an image and/or a
sound displayed to the entry management device corresponds with at
least one authorized image and/or at least one authorized sound for
the access point; wherein the entry management device is operable
to send a command to the electronic lock to unlock the access point
if the image and/or the sound displayed to the entry management
device matches the at least one authorized image and/or the at
least one authorized sound; and wherein the entry management device
is operable to perform an action based upon detection of a trigger
event by the at least one network device.
11. The entry management system of claim 10, wherein the trigger
event includes the at least one network device detecting a presence
of a person, the at least one smart electronic device, and/or an
object.
12. The entry management system of claim 10, wherein the action
includes the entry management device transmitting the visual data
and/or audio data to the at least one smart electronic device, and
wherein the smart electronic device plays the visual data and/or
audio data.
13. The entry management system of claim 10, wherein the entry
management device is operable to detect a delivery of a package and
transmit a package delivery alert to the at least one smart
electronic device.
14. The entry management system of claim 10, wherein the entry
management device is configured to identify smart electronic
devices approaching the access point as smart electronic devices
authorized to enter the access point or perform an action near the
access point or as smart electronic devices not authorized to enter
the access point or perform an action near the access point.
15. The entry management system of claim 14, wherein the entry
management device is in wireless communication with at least one
robot, wherein the entry management device is operable to activate
and/or deactivate the at least one robot, and wherein the entry
management device is configured to deactivate the at least one
robot when smart electronic devices authorized to enter the access
point are approaching and to activate the at least one robot when
smart electronic devices not authorized to enter the access point
are approaching, wherein activation of the at least one robot
causes the at least one robot to track and follow the at least one
smart electronic device proximate to the access point.
16. The entry management system of claim 15, wherein the entry
management device is operable to automatically transmit a lock
command to the electronic lock when an unrecognized smart
electronic device approaches the access point.
17. An entry management system comprising: an entry management
device including a housing comprising a camera, a microphone, and a
speaker; an access point comprising an electronic lock that is
operable to lock and unlock the access point; wherein the
electronic lock is in wireless communication with the entry
management device, and wherein the electronic lock is operable to
receive commands from the entry management device to lock and
unlock the access point; wherein the electronic lock and/or the
entry management device is in wireless communication with at least
one smart electronic device; wherein the at least one smart
electronic device includes a processor, a memory, a camera, a
microphone, and a speaker, wherein the at least one smart
electronic device is configured to capture visual data and/or audio
data from a user of the at least one smart electronic device;
wherein the at least one smart electronic device is configured to
transmit the captured user visual data and/or captured user audio
data to the entry management device; wherein the entry management
device is operable to process visual data produced by the at least
one smart electronic device to determine if the captured visual
data and/or audio data corresponds with at least one authorized
image and/or at least one authorized sound for the access point;
and wherein the entry management device is operable to send a
command to the electronic lock to unlock the access point if the
image and/or the sound displayed to the entry management device
correctly corresponds with the at least one authorized image and/or
the at least one authorized sound.
18. The entry management system of claim 17, wherein the at least
one smart electronic device includes at least one smart wearable
device, wherein the at least one smart wearable device includes a
smart watch, smart glasses, a virtual reality device, and/or an
augmented reality device.
19. The entry management system of claim 18, wherein, when the
electronic lock unlocks, the entry management device automatically
sends at least one message to the at least one smart wearable
device, wherein the at least one message includes a locking status
of the electronic lock.
20. The entry management system of claim 19, wherein the command is
configured to unlock the access point for a duration of time,
wherein the at least one message to the at least one smart wearable
device further includes the duration of time, wherein the
electronic lock is configured to lock the access point after the
duration of time has occurred.
Description
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is related to and claims priority from the
following U.S. patents and patent applications. This application is
a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/556,483,
filed on Dec. 20, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
application Ser. No. 17/488,278, filed on Sep. 28, 2021, which is a
continuation-in-part of PCT Application No. US2021/039812, filed on
Jun. 30, 2021, and a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application Ser.
No. 17/469,863, filed on Sep. 8, 2021. PCT Application No.
US2021/039812 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser.
No. 17/363,262, filed on Jun. 30, 2021, now issued as U.S. Pat. No.
11,151,825, and a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.
17/070,739, filed on Oct. 14, 2020, now issued as U.S. Pat. No.
11,128,840. U.S. application Ser. No. 17/363,262, filed on Jun. 30,
2021, is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.
17/070,739, filed on Oct. 14, 2020, now issued as U.S. Pat. No.
11,128,840. U.S. application Ser. No. 17/488,278 is also a
continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/363,262, filed
on Jun. 30, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
application Ser. No. 17/070,739, filed on Oct. 14, 2020, now issued
as U.S. Pat. No. 11,128,840. U.S. application Ser. No. 17/488,278
also claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 63/228,433, filed on Aug. 2, 2021, and the benefit
of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/239,934,
filed on Sep. 1, 2021. Each of the above referenced applications is
hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
[0002] The present disclosure relates to security systems and entry
management systems. More specifically, the present disclosure
relates to an artificial intelligence ("AI") entry management
device, system, and method of using the same.
Description of the Prior Art
[0003] It is generally known in the prior art to provide doorbells
with cameras. It is further known to provide network devices or
Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
[0004] Prior art documents include the following:
[0005] U.S. Pat. No. 8,689,249 for In-home system monitoring method
and system having a video camera connected to a set-top box by
inventors Pino, et al., filed Oct. 23, 2012 and issued Apr. 1,
2014, is directed to a method of receiving digital television
programming content from a television service provider, receiving a
first user input of a selected digital television programming
content, receiving a message from a system, in response to
receiving the message, causing a notification to be displayed on
the television as an overlay over the displayed television
programming content, receiving a first user command, determining a
first control message to transmit to the system in response to
receiving the first user command, transmitting the first control
message. Also provided is a system including a video camera, an
entry way security system, an HVAC system, a lighting system, an
alarm system, or other system. User inputs may be received via a
remote control to a set top box or from a computing device at a
remote computer system through the internet and/or a mobile
telephone network.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 11,170,593 for Multifunction smart door device
by inventors Schneider, et al., filed May 5, 2020 and issued Nov.
9, 2021, is directed to multifunction smart door devices part of a
system of multifunction smart door devices installed within or near
stateroom doors of a cruise ship. Each smart door device can
control access to a stateroom based on facial recognition or a
wireless credential and can perform other functions such as
controlling stateroom personalization features, providing an
electronic peephole function, allowing controlled access for
authorized crew members, accommodating remote unlocking, and
providing notifications. Data obtained by the smart door devices
can be provided to the cruise operator for service, safety, or
security purposes, such as for anonymized foot traffic analysis,
hazard detection, and stateroom access auditing. Smart door device
functionality may be implemented in part by customers' mobile
devices.
[0007] US Patent Publication No. 2021/0160461 for Smart home and
security system by inventors Martin, et al., filed Nov. 25, 2020
and published May 27, 2021, is directed to a security and smart
home system, components thereof, and associated methods. The system
can include a host-carried monitor configured to monitor data
associated with the host, such as motion data, position data,
temperature data, or humidity data. The system can include one or
more security devices located at a premises to monitor security
data at the premises, with the one or more security devices in
communication with a remote server programmed to process security
event signals from the one or more security devices and transmit
action instructions to the one or more security devices. Security
devices can include an electrical power switch, an electrical power
plug, and a camera.
[0008] US Patent Publication No. 2019/0354220 for Transparent
display control device by inventors Ribbich, et al., filed May 15,
2019 and published Nov. 21, 2019, is directed to a control device
for a building management system (BMS) including a touch screen
display configured to mount to a mounting surface, a communications
interface configured to communicate with the BMS, a near field
communication (NFC) sensor configured to receive information from a
NFC device, a microphone configured to detect vocal input, and a
processing circuit coupled to the touch screen display. The
processing circuit including a processor and memory coupled to the
processor, the memory storing instructions thereon that, when
executed by the processor, cause the control device to receive user
input from at least one of the touch screen display, the NFC
sensor, or the microphone, validate an identity of a user based on
the user input, and cause the BMS to control an environmental
variable of a space based on the validation.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 10,657,383 for Computer vision to enable
services by inventors Solh, et al., filed Sep. 23, 2016 and issued
May 19, 2020, is directed to computer vision for manual services.
In some instances, a remote system may determine that a current
time is within a threshold period of time of a scheduled service
and, based on the determination, send a first message requesting
image data to a camera apparatus located within an environment.
After sending the first message, the remote system may receive
image data associated with the environment from the camera
apparatus and use the image to detect an object within the
environment. The remote system can then send a second message to a
device of a guest and a third message to a device of a user, where
each of the second message and the third message indicates that the
object is within the environment. In some instances, the object can
include an animal while in some instances, the object can include a
person.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 11,132,877 for Doorbell communities by
inventors Scalisi, et al., filed Apr. 30, 2020 and issued Sep. 28,
2021, is directed to doorbells that can send data to each other to
enable a first doorbell user to warn a second doorbell user
regarding a suspicious visitor. A first user can indicate a first
trait of a visitor via a first remote computing device. The first
user can create a user group to enable the members of the user
group to use their doorbells to take pictures of suspicious
visitors and to send the pictures of the suspicious visitors to
other members of the user group.
[0011] US Patent Publication No. 2019/0156406 for Method and system
for apartment rental inspections without presence of brokers or
rental agents by inventors Landau, et al., filed Nov. 22, 2017 and
published May 23, 2019, is directed to a system for facilitating
real estate (RE) unit rentals by intermediating landlords and
potential tenants (PT) and enabling RE unit inspections and viewing
without requiring on-site landlord representatives. The system
includes a master-server facility including software modules and
databases for executing system algorithms that enable and control
communications between landlord communication devices, PT devices
and apartment devices including a remote door lock, cameras and
movement sensors. The door lock is remotely-operable and wirelessly
controlled. The apartment devices include communication and
monitoring devices temporarily installed in the RE units to enable
RE unit inspections and viewing. The software modules including at
least: a) a unit listing software; b) a tenant liaison module; c)
an inspection scheduling module; d) a door opening module that
sends to the PT devices at least one activation code for the door
lock; and e) a tenant present module that verifies that the
potential tenant is located in proximity to the entry door.
[0012] US Patent Publication No. 2021/0142603 for Secured delivery
system and method of using same by inventor Carter, filed Jan. 15,
2021 and published May 13, 2021, is directed to a secured delivery
system including a doorbell device comprising a scanner, and a
locking mechanism operatively connected to the scanner a computer
processor or a cloud server and a structure, such as a residence or
lockbox. A key, which can be in the form of a bar code, can be
generated and sent to delivery or service personnel needing access
to the structure. The delivery or service personnel present the bar
code to the scanner. Upon reading the bar code, the locking
mechanism is unlocked thereby allowing access to the structure.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 10,896,562 for Secured delivery system and
method of using same by inventor Carter, filed Oct. 4, 2019 and
issued Oct. 19, 2021, is directed to a secured delivery system
including a doorbell device comprising a scanner, and a locking
mechanism operatively connected to the scanner, a computer
processor or a cloud server and a structure, such as a residence or
lockbox. A key, which can be in the form of a bar code, can be
generated and sent to delivery or service personnel needing access
to the structure. The delivery or service personnel present the bar
code to the scanner. Upon reading the bar code, the locking
mechanism is unlocked thereby allowing access to the structure.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 10,475,259 for Security system and method of
using same by inventor Carter, filed Mar. 28, 2018 and issued Nov.
12, 2019, is directed to a security system including a doorbell
device comprising a scanner, and a locking mechanism operatively
connected to the scanner and a structure, such as a home or
lockbox. A key, which can be in the form of a bar code, can be
generated and sent to delivery or service personnel needing access
to the structure. The delivery or service personnel present the bar
code to the scanner. Upon reading the bar code, the locking
mechanism is unlocked thereby allowing access to the structure.
[0015] US Patent Publication No. 2021/0080996 for Adjustable
head-mounted display by inventors Hudman, et al., filed Sep. 15,
2020 and published Mar. 18, 2021, is directed to a head-mounted
display including a front, a back, a first actuator, a second
actuator, a first adjustable member extending between the front and
the back and operably engaging the first actuator, and a second
adjustable member extending between the front and the back and
operably engaging the second actuator. The first adjustable member
and the second adjustable member may be adjustable in length via
the second actuator to vary a gap distance between the front and
the back. In some embodiments, the head-mounted display may include
a wire routing assembly for routing wire(s) between the front and
the back of the head-mounted display. Additionally, in some
embodiments, the head-mounted display may include a harness for
engaging a user.
[0016] US Patent Publication No. 2020/0126243 for Depth map with
structured and flood light by inventors Bleyer, et al., filed Dec.
20, 2019 and published Apr. 23, 2020, is directed to a method
including receiving an image of a scene illuminated by both a
predetermined structured light pattern and a flood fill
illumination, generating an active brightness image of the scene
based on the received image of the scene including detecting a
plurality of dots of the predetermined structured light pattern,
and removing the plurality of dots of the predetermined structured
light pattern from the active brightness image, and generating a
depth map of the scene based on the received image and the active
brightness image.
[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 10,715,791 for Virtual eyeglass set for
viewing actual scene that corrects for different location of lenses
than eyes by inventors Matson, et al., filed Apr. 28, 2016 and
issued Jul. 14, 2020, is directed to a virtual eyeglass set
including a frame, a first virtual lens and second virtual lens,
and a processor. The frame may mount onto a user's head and hold
the first virtual lens in front of the user's left eye and the
second virtual lens in front of the user's right eye. A first side
of each lens may face the user and a second side of each lens may
face away from the user. Each of the first virtual lens and the
second virtual lens may include a light field display on the first
side, and a light field camera on the second side. The processor
may construct, for display on each of the light field displays
based on image data received via each of the light field cameras,
an image from a perspective of the user's respective eye.
[0018] U.S. Pat. No. 9,063,330 for Perception based predictive
tracking for head mounted displays by inventors LaValle, et al.,
filed May 22, 2014 and issued Jun. 23, 2015, is directed to a
method of and apparatus for predictive tracking for a head mounted
display. The method comprises obtaining one or more
three-dimensional angular velocity measurements from a sensor
monitoring the head mounted display and setting a prediction
interval based upon the one or more three-dimensional angular
velocity measurements such that the prediction interval is
substantially zero when the head mounted display is substantially
stationary and the prediction interval increases up to a
predetermined latency interval when the head mounted display is
moving at an angular velocity of or above a predetermined
threshold. The method further includes predicting a
three-dimensional orientation for the head mounted display to
create a predicted orientation at a time corresponding to the
prediction interval, and generating a rendered image corresponding
to the predicted orientation for presentation on the head mounted
display.
[0019] U.S. Pat. No. 10,535,151 for Depth map with structured and
flood light by inventors Bleyer, et al., filed Aug. 22, 2017 and
issued Jan. 14, 2020, is directed to a method including receiving
an image of a scene illuminated by both a predetermined structured
light pattern and a flood fill illumination, generating an active
brightness image of the scene based on the received image of the
scene including detecting a plurality of dots of the predetermined
structured light pattern, and removing the plurality of dots of the
predetermined structured light pattern from the active brightness
image, and generating a depth map of the scene based on the
received image and the active brightness image..
[0020] U.S. Pat. No. 9,652,896 for Image based tracking in
augmented reality systems by inventors Jurgenson, et al., filed
Nov. 30, 2015 and issued May 16, 2017, is directed to systems and
methods for image based location estimation are described. In one
example embodiment, a first positioning system is used to generate
a first position estimate. A set of structure facade data
describing one or more structure facades associated with the first
position estimate is then accessed. A first image of an environment
is captured, and a portion of the image is matched to part of the
structure facade data. A second position is then estimated based on
a comparison of the structure facade data with the portion of the
image matched to the structure facade data.
[0021] U.S. Pat. No. 9,005,129 for Wearable heart rate monitor by
inventors Venkatraman, et al., filed May 30, 2014 and issued Apr.
14, 2015, is directed to a biometric monitoring device used to
determine a user's heart rate by using a heartbeat waveform sensor
and a motion detecting sensor. In some embodiments, the device
collects collecting concurrent output data from the heartbeat
waveform sensor and output data from the motion detecting sensor,
detects a periodic component of the output data from the motion
detecting sensor, and uses the periodic component of the output
data from the motion detecting sensor to remove a corresponding
periodic component from the output data from the heartbeat waveform
sensor. From this result, the device may determine and present the
user's heart rate.
[0022] U.S. Pat. No. 8,945,017 for Wearable heart rate monitor by
inventors Venkatraman, filed Jun. 3, 2014 and issued Feb. 3, 2015,
is directed to a biometric monitoring device used to determine a
user's heart rate by using a heartbeat waveform sensor and a motion
detecting sensor. In some embodiments, the device collects
collecting concurrent output data from the heartbeat waveform
sensor and output data from the motion detecting sensor, detects a
periodic component of the output data from the motion detecting
sensor, and uses the periodic component of the output data from the
motion detecting sensor to remove a corresponding periodic
component from the output data from the heartbeat waveform sensor.
From this result, the device may determine and present the user's
heart rate.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0023] The present invention relates to a security management
system operable to communicate with a plurality of other network
devices.
[0024] Many consumers today purchase goods on the Internet from
online retailers, and this form of shopping is expected to increase
in the years to come. This form of shopping, which has become
commonplace, requires the purchased goods to be shipped to the
purchaser. Often, the goods are packaged and delivered to the
residence of the purchaser while the purchaser is not home, and the
packaged goods are merely left unsecured by the door of the
purchaser's residence. Of course, such packages are prone to being
stolen, resulting in significant financial loss to someone in the
online retailer chain.
[0025] Therefore, a need exists for improved security management
systems and methods of use thereof.
[0026] One object of the present disclosure is to provide an
artificial intelligence (AI) entry management (EM) device for an
entry management (EM) system. The AI EM device includes a camera, a
microphone, a motion detector, a speaker, and a housing. In one
embodiment, the housing includes a shape (e.g., oval shape) with a
substantially open middle. In another embodiment, the housing is
solid within the shape (e.g., oval shape). The substantially open
middle includes a housing protrusion portion configured to house
the camera, the microphone, the motion detector, and the speaker.
In one embodiment, an AI EM device or AI EM system, as described
herein, is part of a smart-home device that has other functions,
such as opening other entry points to a property or building,
turning on lights, setting temperature for a heating or air
conditioning system and the like.
[0027] In one embodiment, the present invention includes an EM
system including an EM device including a housing comprising a
camera, a microphone, and a speaker, an access point comprising an
electronic lock that is operable to lock and unlock the access
point, and a software platform, wherein the electronic lock is in
direct wireless communication with the EM device or wherein the
electronic lock is in wireless communication with the EM device via
the software platform, and wherein the electronic lock is operable
to receive commands from the EM device to lock and unlock the
access point, wherein the EM device is in wireless communication
with at least one network device through the software platform,
wherein the EM device is operable to process visual data produced
by the camera and/or audio data produced by the microphone to
determine if an image and/or a sound displayed to the EM device
corresponds with at least one authorized image and/or at least one
authorized sound for the access point, wherein the EM device is
operable to send a command to the electronic lock to unlock the
access point if the image and/or the sound displayed to the EM
device matches the at least one authorized image and/or the at
least one authorized sound, and wherein the EM device is operable
to cause the at least one network device to perform an action based
upon detection of a trigger event. In one embodiment, the at least
one network device includes at least one secondary camera, wherein
the trigger event includes a detection of a person, an object,
movement, or audio by the EM device, and wherein the action
includes the at least one secondary camera photographing an area
associated with the trigger event, recording video of the area
associated with the trigger event, repositioning to view the area
associated with the trigger event, and/or zooming in on the area
associated with the trigger event. In one embodiment, the at least
one network device includes at least one drone, wherein the at
least one drone is operable to follow at least one obj ect or
person of interest, take photographs of the at least one obj ect or
person of interest, record video of the at least one obj ect or
person of interest, and/or follow a surveillance route. In one
embodiment, the trigger event includes the EM device receiving the
image and/or the sound, and wherein the at least one network device
includes at least one media device, at least one thermostat, at
least one lighting device, at least one smart window device, and/or
at least one smart socket, and wherein the action includes turning
on, turning off, and/or adjusting a setting on the at least one
media device, the at least one thermostat, the at least one
lighting device, the at least one smart window device, and/or the
at least one smart socket. The EM device is further operable to
receive a second image and/or a second sound, wherein the EM device
is operable to cause the at least one network device to perform a
second action based upon receipt of the second image and/or the
second sound, wherein the second action includes an action
different than the action. In another embodiment, the EM device or
at least one secondary camera in wireless communication with the EM
device is operable to detect movement near at least one delivered
package, and wherein the EM device is operable to transmit an alert
in response to the movement near the at least one delivered package
or send a command to at least one tertiary camera to capture at
least one image or at least one video of an area where the movement
was detected near the at least one delivered package. In yet
another embodiment, the at least one authorized image and/or the at
least one authorized sound is associated with a user profile, and
wherein the user profile includes at least one setting or at least
one activation status for the at least one network device, wherein
trigger event includes unlocking the access point and the action
includes implementing the at least one setting or the at least one
activation status for the at least one network device. In another
embodiment, the at least one authorized image and/or the at least
one authorized sound is associated with a user profile, and wherein
the EM device is operable to retrieve information from the software
platform based on the user profile and play an audio message based
on the information from the software platform. In another
embodiment, the at least one authorized image includes a face of a
user, and wherein the EM device and/or the software platform is
operable to perform facial recognition to match the image to the
face of the user. In yet another embodiment, the EM device is
operable to perform image or video analysis on an image or video
obtained from the EM device or the at least one network device,
wherein the image or video analysis includes recognition of at
least one person, at least one weapon, at least one action, or at
least one sound.
[0028] In another embodiment, the present invention includes an EM
system including an EM device including a housing comprising a
camera, a microphone, and a speaker, an access point including an
electronic lock that is operable to lock and unlock the access
point, and a software platform, wherein the electronic lock is in
direct wireless communication with the EM device or wherein the
electronic lock is in wireless communication with the EM device via
the software platform, and wherein the electronic lock is operable
to receive commands from the EM device to lock and unlock the
access point, wherein the EM device is in wireless communication
with at least one network device through the software platform,
wherein the EM device is operable to process visual data produced
by the camera and/or audio data produced by the microphone to
determine if an image and/or a sound displayed to the EM device
corresponds with at least one authorized image and/or at least one
authorized sound for the access point, wherein the EM device is
operable to send a command to the electronic lock to unlock the
access point if the image and/or the sound displayed to the EM
device matches the at least one authorized image and/or the at
least one authorized sound, and wherein the EM device is operable
to perform an action based upon detection of a trigger event by the
at least one network device. In one embodiment, the trigger event
includes the at least one network device detecting a presence of a
person or an object. In another embodiment, the action includes the
EM device instructed a second network device to record video or
take photos of the person or the object or follow the person or the
object. In yet another embodiment, the EM device and/or the at
least one secondary camera are operable to detect a delivery of a
package, and wherein the EM device is operable to transmit a
package delivery alert to at least one user device associated with
the EM device. In another embodiment, the EM device includes a
facial recognition module operable to identify individuals
approaching the access point as individuals authorized to enter the
access point or perform an action near the access point or
individuals not authorized to enter the access point or perform an
action near the access point. The EM device is operable to
automatically transmit a lock command to the electronic lock when
an unrecognized individual approaches the access point. In a
further embodiment, the EM device is in wireless communication with
at least one robot, wherein the EM device is operable to activate
and/or deactivate the at least one robot, and wherein activation of
the at least one robot causes the at least one robot to track and
follow at least one individual proximate to the access point.
[0029] In yet another embodiment, the present invention includes an
EM system including an EM device including a housing comprising a
camera, a microphone, and a speaker, an access point comprising an
electronic lock that is operable to lock and unlock the access
point, wherein the electronic lock is in wireless communication
with the EM device, and wherein the electronic lock is operable to
receive commands from the EM device to lock and unlock the access
point, wherein the electronic lock and/or the EM device is in
wireless communication with at least one network device, wherein
the EM device is operable to process visual data produced by the
camera and/or audio data produced by the microphone to determine if
an image and/or a sound displayed to the EM device corresponds with
at least one authorized image and/or at least one authorized sound
for the access point, wherein the EM device is operable to send a
command to the electronic lock to unlock the access point if the
image and/or the sound displayed to the EM device correctly
corresponds with the at least one authorized image and/or the at
least one authorized sound, and wherein the EM device automatically
activates and/or deactivates one or more of the at least one
network device when the EM device sends a command for the
electronic lock to unlock. In a further embodiment, the at least
one network device includes at least one secondary camera, and
wherein activation of the at least one secondary camera causes the
at least one secondary camera to turn on, move position, and/or
capture an image or a video. In another embodiment, when the
electronic lock locks, the EM device automatically sends at least
one message to deactivate or activate one or more of the at least
one network device, wherein the one or more of the at least one
network device includes at least one smart light, at least one
thermostat, and/or at least one robot.
[0030] These and other aspects of the present invention will become
apparent to those skilled in the art after a reading of the
following description of the preferred embodiment when considered
with the drawings, as they support the claimed invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] The present disclosure will be better understood by reading
the Detailed Description with reference to the accompanying
drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in which
like reference numerals denote similar structure and refer to like
elements throughout.
[0032] FIG. 1 shows a perspective environmental view of an AI EM
device and system according to select embodiment of the
disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 2 shows a front left perspective view of an AI EM
device according to select embodiment of the disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 3 shows a back left perspective view of the AI EM
device according to FIG. 2.
[0035] FIG. 4 shows a front view of the AI EM device according to
FIG. 2.
[0036] FIG. 5 shows a back view of the AI EM device according to
FIG. 2.
[0037] FIG. 6 shows a front right perspective partially
disassembled view of the AI EM device according to FIG. 2.
[0038] FIG. 7 shows a back left perspective partially disassembled
view of the AI EM device according to FIG. 2.
[0039] FIG. 8 shows a front view of a mobile electronic device with
a digital photograph that is an image virtual key configured to be
identified by the camera of the AI EM device and verified for
access to an access point.
[0040] FIG. 9 shows a display screen showing the AI EM system
tracking a mobile electronic device, such as a mobile phone, of a
third party to enable a contextual greeting and to provide logistic
instructions to said third party when their mobile device moves
within a threshold distance of the AI EM device.
[0041] FIG. 10 is a top view of an exemplary storage container
having two compartments therein.
[0042] FIG. 11 shows a front view of a mobile electronic device
that displays a plurality of digital photographs that in series are
an image virtual key configured to be identified by the camera of
the AI EM device and verified for access to an access point.
[0043] FIG. 12 shows a front view of an exemplary AI EM device
having a display screen that displays images for selection as a
selected virtual key.
[0044] FIG. 13 shows a front view of an exemplary AI EM device
communicating with a mobile electronic device to present a
plurality of images for selection to produce an image virtual key
for access to an access point.
[0045] FIG. 14 shows a top view of a building, a dwelling, having
robot docking stations configured on each corner of the building to
provide substantially complete monitoring of the perimeter of the
building.
[0046] FIG. 15 shows an exemplary docking station having a
plurality of batteries and a charging interface for charging a
robot docked thereon.
[0047] FIG. 16 shows an exemplary docking station configured under
the eave of a home.
[0048] FIG. 17 shows an exemplary docking station configured under
the eave of a home.
[0049] It is to be noted that the drawings presented are intended
solely for the purpose of illustration and that they are,
therefore, neither desired nor intended to limit the disclosure to
any or all of the exact details of construction shown, except
insofar as they may be deemed essential to the claimed
disclosure.
[0050] FIG. 18 shows an exemplary docking station configured under
the eave of a home.
[0051] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of a system of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0052] The present invention is generally directed to entry
management systems.
[0053] In one embodiment, the present invention includes an EM
system including an EM device including a housing comprising a
camera, a microphone, and a speaker, an access point comprising an
electronic lock that is operable to lock and unlock the access
point, and a software platform, wherein the electronic lock is in
direct wireless communication with the EM device or wherein the
electronic lock is in wireless communication with the EM device via
the software platform, and wherein the electronic lock is operable
to receive commands from the EM device to lock and unlock the
access point, wherein the EM device is in wireless communication
with at least one network device through the software platform,
wherein the EM device is operable to process visual data produced
by the camera and/or audio data produced by the microphone to
determine if an image and/or a sound displayed to the EM device
corresponds with at least one authorized image and/or at least one
authorized sound for the access point, wherein the EM device is
operable to send a command to the electronic lock to unlock the
access point if the image and/or the sound displayed to the EM
device matches the at least one authorized image and/or the at
least one authorized sound, and wherein the EM device is operable
to cause the at least one network device to perform an action based
upon detection of a trigger event. In one embodiment, the at least
one network device includes at least one secondary camera, wherein
the trigger event includes a detection of a person, an object,
movement, or audio by the EM device, and wherein the action
includes the at least one secondary camera photographing an area
associated with the trigger event, recording video of the area
associated with the trigger event, repositioning to view the area
associated with the trigger event, and/or zooming in on the area
associated with the trigger event. In one embodiment, the at least
one network device includes at least one drone, wherein the at
least one drone is operable to follow at least one object or person
of interest, take photographs of the at least one object or person
of interest, record video of the at least one object or person of
interest, and/or follow a surveillance route. In one embodiment,
the trigger event includes the EM device receiving the image and/or
the sound, and wherein the at least one network device includes at
least one media device, at least one thermostat, at least one
lighting device, at least one smart window device, and/or at least
one smart socket, and wherein the action includes turning on,
turning off, and/or adjusting a setting on the at least one media
device, the at least one thermostat, the at least one lighting
device, the at least one smart window device, and/or the at least
one smart socket. The EM device is further operable to receive a
second image and/or a second sound, wherein the EM device is
operable to cause the at least one network device to perform a
second action based upon receipt of the second image and/or the
second sound, wherein the second action includes an action
different than the action. In another embodiment, the EM device or
at least one secondary camera in wireless communication with the EM
device is operable to detect movement near at least one delivered
package, and wherein the EM device is operable to transmit an alert
in response to the movement near the at least one delivered package
or send a command to at least one tertiary camera to capture at
least one image or at least one video of an area where the movement
was detected near the at least one delivered package. In yet
another embodiment, the at least one authorized image and/or the at
least one authorized sound is associated with a user profile, and
wherein the user profile includes at least one setting or at least
one activation status for the at least one network device, wherein
trigger event includes unlocking the access point and the action
includes implementing the at least one setting or the at least one
activation status for the at least one network device. In another
embodiment, the at least one authorized image and/or the at least
one authorized sound is associated with a user profile, and wherein
the EM device is operable to retrieve information from the software
platform based on the user profile and play an audio message based
on the information from the software platform. In another
embodiment, the at least one authorized image includes a face of a
user, and wherein the EM device and/or the software platform is
operable to perform facial recognition to match the image to the
face of the user. In yet another embodiment, the EM device is
operable to perform image or video analysis on an image or video
obtained from the EM device or the at least one network device,
wherein the image or video analysis includes recognition of at
least one person, at least one weapon, at least one action, or at
least one sound.
[0054] In another embodiment, the present invention includes an EM
system including an EM device including a housing comprising a
camera, a microphone, and a speaker, an access point comprising an
electronic lock that is operable to lock and unlock the access
point, and a software platform, wherein the electronic lock is in
direct wireless communication with the EM device or wherein the
electronic lock is in wireless communication with the EM device via
the software platform, and wherein the electronic lock is operable
to receive commands from the EM device to lock and unlock the
access point, wherein the EM device is in wireless communication
with at least one network device through the software platform,
wherein the EM device is operable to process visual data produced
by the camera and/or audio data produced by the microphone to
determine if an image and/or a sound displayed to the EM device
corresponds with at least one authorized image and/or at least one
authorized sound for the access point, wherein the EM device is
operable to send a command to the electronic lock to unlock the
access point if the image and/or the sound displayed to the EM
device matches the at least one authorized image and/or the at
least one authorized sound, and wherein the EM device is operable
to perform an action based upon detection of a trigger event by the
at least one network device. In one embodiment, the trigger event
includes the at least one network device detecting a presence of a
person or an object. In another embodiment, the action includes the
EM device instructed a second network device to record video or
take photos of the person or the object or follow the person or the
object. In yet another embodiment, the EM device and/or the at
least one secondary camera are operable to detect a delivery of a
package, and wherein the EM device is operable to transmit a
package delivery alert to at least one user device associated with
the EM device. In another embodiment, the EM device includes a
facial recognition module operable to identify individuals
approaching the access point as individuals authorized to enter the
access point or perform an action near the access point or
individuals not authorized to enter the access point or perform an
action near the access point. The EM device is operable to
automatically transmit a lock command to the electronic lock when
an unrecognized individual approaches the access point. In a
further embodiment, the EM device is in wireless communication with
at least one robot, wherein the EM device is operable to activate
and/or deactivate the at least one robot, and wherein activation of
the at least one robot causes the at least one robot to track and
follow at least one individual proximate to the access point.
[0055] In yet another embodiment, the present invention includes an
EM system including an EM device including a housing comprising a
camera, a microphone, and a speaker, an access point comprising an
electronic lock that is operable to lock and unlock the access
point, wherein the electronic lock is in wireless communication
with the EM device, and wherein the electronic lock is operable to
receive commands from the EM device to lock and unlock the access
point, wherein the electronic lock and/or the EM device is in
wireless communication with at least one network device, wherein
the EM device is operable to process visual data produced by the
camera and/or audio data produced by the microphone to determine if
an image and/or a sound displayed to the EM device corresponds with
at least one authorized image and/or at least one authorized sound
for the access point, wherein the EM device is operable to send a
command to the electronic lock to unlock the access point if the
image and/or the sound displayed to the EM device correctly
corresponds with the at least one authorized image and/or the at
least one authorized sound, and wherein the EM device automatically
activates and/or deactivates one or more of the at least one
network device when the EM device sends a command for the
electronic lock to unlock. In a further embodiment, the at least
one network device includes at least one secondary camera, and
wherein activation of the at least one secondary camera causes the
at least one secondary camera to turn on, move position, and/or
capture an image or a video. In another embodiment, when the
electronic lock locks, the EM device automatically sends at least
one message to deactivate or activate one or more of the at least
one network device, wherein the one or more of the at least one
network device includes at least one smart light, at least one
thermostat, and/or at least one robot.
[0056] None of the prior art discloses an EM device operable to
command and control other network devices as described herein.
[0057] In select embodiments of the disclosed AI EM device, a
plurality of lights is included. The plurality of lights is
positioned around a periphery of the housing. In one embodiment,
the plurality of lights is positioned around a periphery of a shape
(e.g., an oval shape) of the housing. In select embodiments, each
of the plurality of lights includes a light emitting diode. In one
embodiment, each of the light emitting diodes of the plurality of
lights is configured to light up based on sounds emitted from the
speaker, whereby the plurality of lights is configured to mimic the
AI EM device as if it were talking. Another feature is that the
plurality of lights is configured to indicate an alarm has been
triggered by flashing. Another feature is that the plurality of
lights is configured to indicate a status of the AI EM device.
[0058] In select embodiments of the disclosed AI EM device, an LED
lens is included. The LED lens is configured to cover and protect
the plurality of lights. In one embodiment, the LED lens has an
oval shape.
[0059] In select embodiments of the disclosed AI EM device, a
mounting bracket is included. The mounting bracket is configured
for mounting the housing of the AI EM device to a surface. In one
embodiment, the mounting bracket has an oval shape.
[0060] In select embodiments of the disclosed AI EM device, a power
source is included. The power source includes a hardwired power
source, a battery powered power source, at least one solar panel,
the like, or combinations thereof.
[0061] In select embodiments of the disclosed AI EM device, a
wireless communication device is included. The wireless
communication device is housed inside of the housing protrusion
portion of the housing of the AI EM device. The wireless
communication device is configured to communicate with the EM
system or other AI EM devices via wireless communication. In one
embodiment, the wireless communication of the wireless
communication device is selected from a group consisting of: WI-FI,
UHF radio waves in the industrial, scientific and medical (ISM)
radio bands (e.g., from 2.402 GHz to 2.480 GHz), and building
personal area networks (PANs), also known as BLUETOOTH.RTM.
(Bluetooth trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. of Kirkland,
Wash.), the like, or combinations thereof.
[0062] One feature of the disclosed AI EM device is that the
speaker is positioned in the housing protrusion portion and
oriented toward the substantially open middle. This orientation of
the speaker allows for projecting sound from the speaker out of the
AI EM device.
[0063] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM device is the
inclusion of a processor and at least one memory. The AI EM device
includes a non-transitory computer readable storage medium
including software. The software includes program instructions
configured for providing artificial intelligence to the AI EM
device. In select embodiments, the software is configured for
development of intelligence within the AI EM device, including,
speech recognition, problem-solving, learning, planning, the like,
combinations thereof, etc. In select embodiments of the disclosed
AI EM device, the processor is a networked processor. The networked
processor is connected to the AI EM device via wireless
communication to the wireless communication device on the AI EM
device. In one embodiment, the processor is housed inside of the
housing protrusion portion of the housing of the AI EM device.
[0064] An exemplary AI EM system employs an AI system similar to or
including features of the Watson AI system. Watson is a
supercomputer that combines artificial intelligence (AI) and
sophisticated analytical software for optimal performance as a
"question answering" machine. The supercomputer is named for IBM's
founder, Thomas J. Watson. The Watson supercomputer processes at a
rate of 80 teraflops (trillion floating-point operations per
second). To replicate (or surpass) a high-functioning human's
ability to answer questions, Watson accesses 90 servers with a
combined data store of over 200 million pages of information, which
it processes against six million logic rules. It is a platform for
exploring, visualizing and presenting data that utilizes Watson's
cognitive capabilities to automatically surface data-driven
insights and recommend ways of presenting the data.
[0065] In another aspect, the instant disclosure includes an AI EM
system. The disclosed AI EM system includes utilizing the disclosed
AI EM device in any of the various embodiments and/or combination
of embodiments shown and/or described herein. As such, in general,
the disclosed AI EM system includes the disclosed EM device with a
camera, a microphone, a motion detector, a speaker, a wireless
communication device, a smart wearable device, the like, and/or
combinations thereof. In addition, in one embodiment, the disclosed
AI EM system includes an AI device. The AI device is in
communication with the EM device (e.g., wired communication,
wireless communication). In another embodiment, the AI device
includes a processor with a non-transitory computer readable
storage medium having software with program instructions configured
for providing artificial intelligence to the AI EM device.
[0066] One feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the
software has programming instructions that, when executed, cause
the EM device to execute entry management and ecommerce support
functions including, but not limited to, the delivery of messages,
directives, instructions, greetings, recordings, and facilitating
the connection of a third party for two-way audio/video
communication.
[0067] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the
motion detector of the EM device is configured to activate upon
motion and provide a greeting, command, or instructions, whereby
the system activates upon recognition of a paired mobile device.
The paired mobile device includes a stored identification paired
with the system (e.g., via the approval of an owner/administrator).
In one embodiment, the owner/administrator in the system includes,
but is not limited to, individuals assigned programming rights
configured to allow the owner/administrator to make selections
(e.g., remotely) via the AI EM system.
[0068] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that, when
activation occurs, the AI EM system is configured to provide a
response. In one embodiment, the response is a spontaneous
response, an automatic response, or a pre-programmed response in
accordance with the device it detects.
[0069] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the AI
EM system is configured to provide a response in accordance with
the image read by its camera. In one embodiment, the response is a
spontaneous response, or a pre-programed response in accordance
with the image read by its camera.
[0070] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that, when
activated, a notification is sent to the user device of the
owner/administrator with an option to engage remotely in two-way
communication, activate a preprogrammed or custom message, provide
a virtual key or activate the recording for a message, detect a
person or a device via the camera, the microphone, the motion
detector, or the wireless communication device and provide an
intelligent response to the person or device via the speaker or the
wireless communication device. In one embodiment, the notification
is sent simultaneously when activated.
[0071] The AI EM system is operable to present a question to ask if
a person within proximity of the EM device would like to leave a
message. If the system receives an affirmative response, then the
system is operable to record an audio message via the microphone of
the AI EM device. In one embodiment, this message is relayed to an
administrator device (i.e., a user device of an administrator)
immediately or upon receiving a request from the administrator
device to play the message. For example and not limitation, the
administrator device is a smart electronic device that includes,
but is not limited to, a smart wearable device, a wearable device,
a portable device, and/or a smart portable device. For example and
not limitation, the smart wearable device is a smart watch, smart
glasses, virtual reality device, and/or augmented reality device.
The AI EM system is also operable to transmit a question and/or
prompt to a user device (e.g., with or without administrative
privileges) within proximity of the EM device. The user device is
configured to receive a selection based on the question and/or
prompt. For example, and not limitation, the question and/or prompt
from the system relates to whether the user of the user device
would like to interface with an administrator. The user device is
configured to receive a selection via a display screen and transmit
the selection to the AI EM system. The AI EM system is then further
operable to transmit a request to an administrator device. The
administrator device is configured to receive a selection relating
to the request. If the request is approved, the AI EM system is
configured to initiate an audio interface or call (e.g., video
call) between the administrator device and the user device. The
administrator device is configured to display the image data
captured by the AI EM device and the AI EM device is configured to
display image data captured by the administrator device. In another
example of an AI EM system according to the present invention, the
EM device is configured to record messages for at least one
administrator device and/or transmit messages to at least one
administrator device. A message is indicated, sent, or accessible
for only one or more than one recipient.
[0072] Another feature of the artificial intelligence (AI) entry
management (EM) system of the present invention provides for a
package to be scanned by the camera of the EM device and for the AI
EM system to create or to initiate a geofence around a
predetermined region in proximity to the EM device, or around the
range of visibility of the camera of the EM system, by way of
example and not limitation, a monitored designated area (MDA) or
multiple monitored designated areas (MDAs) created by the AI EM
system in the view of the camera, or in view of multiple cameras of
the AI EM system. A geofence includes, but is not limited to, a
virtual geographic boundary, defined by global positioning system
(GPS) or radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, that
enables software to trigger a response when a mobile device enters
or leaves a particular area. In one embodiment, when the geofence
or MDA is initiated, the EM device is configured to utilize the
motion detector, camera, microphone, or combinations thereof for
creating the geofence or MDA monitored area, having a proximity
distance from the AI EM device, and/or for detecting a breach of
the geofence area or MDA. In select embodiments, when a breach of
the geofence area or MDA is detected, the AI EM system is
configured to: alert the owner via a wireless notification, trigger
the EM device to set off an alarm of the EM device, trigger an
external alarm, the like; and/or or combinations thereof. In select
embodiments, when the package is placed in the geofence monitored
area or MDA, then the EM device is activatable when input is
received (e.g. from a user device) belonging to a carrier entering
the geofence area, or the EM device is activatable to monitor the
geofence area or MDA via the motion detector, camera, microphone,
or combinations thereof. In other select embodiments, the geofence
or MDA is operable to be deactivated after the EM device receives a
scan of the package or a virtual key, whereby the package is
retrieved, whereby the notification, alarms, or combinations
thereof are deactivated by the scanning of the package or the
virtual key, and the geofence monitored area or MDA is operable to
be reactivated after a subsequent scan.
[0073] In another embodiment, the AI EM system is operable to
implement proximity detection and alerts upon a trigger, such as
the EM device scanning a package or a user entering a house
associated with the AI EM system. By way of example, the AI EM
system is operable to detect movement in a visual or auditory range
of the AI EM device. Alternatively, scanning a label of a package
or another trigger event causes the AI EM device to arm other
devices to detect movement or sound. In one example, a camera
connected to the EM device either directly or through a platform is
operable to detect movement in an area near a delivered package,
with this area being outside of a range of vision of the AI EM
device but within an area inside a range of vision of the camera.
The area inside the range of vision of the camera is operable to be
a defined space (e.g., a geofence) or an area within a
predetermined distance of a monitored area (e.g., a package
delivery zone, a front porch, etc.). Geofences and monitored areas
are operable to be defined by the system centroidally (i.e.,
relative to a central point) or non-centroidally (e.g., a perimeter
around an object or a perimeter of a space, such as a perimeter of
a porch, a package delivery zone, a front porch region, etc.).
Alternatively, the range of vision or visibility of the camera
included within the housing of the EM device defines the monitored
area or region in proximity to the EM device.
[0074] An exemplary AI EM system is configured to collect
audio-visual information that is recorded in the event of a breach
of an access point. Sensors on an access point are coupled with the
AI EM system and when an access point is opened without
authorization from the AI EM system, an alarm is configured to
sound and the camera and microphone are configured to record
information for later evaluation to determine the source of the
breach. For example, a video is recorded that is later watched to
identify a thief breaking into a home. Note, in one embodiment, a
motion sensor is coupled with the AI EM system and video and audio
is recorded when the motion detector is activated.
[0075] Another AI EM system embodiment of the present invention
includes an EM device constructed and configured to communicate
directly via wireless or wired communication (e.g., radiofrequency,
BLUETOOTH, ZIGBEE, WI-FI, Near Field Communication (NFC), a Link 16
network, and/or a mesh network and/or other similar communication
methods), with a smart electronic device including a memory, a
processor, and a visual display. The EM device includes a housing
including at least one input capture device, further including at
least one of an image capture device, a video capture device, an
audio capture device, an audio transmitting device, an image
transmitting device, and/or a video transmitting device. In one
embodiment, the EM device collects at least one of visual
information and audio information. The smart electronic device
includes, but is not limited to, a smart wearable device, a
wearable device, a portable device, and a smart portable device.
The smart wearable device includes, but is not limited to, smart
watches (e.g., FITBIT, SAMSUNG GALAXY, APPLE WATCH, WEAR OS, or
WHOOP) and virtual reality and augmented reality devices (e.g.,
Google Glass, Valve Index, OCULUS, and HOLOLENS). For further
details relating to these and related smart wearable devices, see
U.S. Pat. Nos. 10,715,791; 9,063,330; 10,535,151; 9,652,896;
9,005,129; and 8,945,017, and US Patent Publication Nos.
2021/0080996 and 2020/0126243, each of which is incorporated herein
by reference in its entirety. Virtual reality (VR) is a simulated
experience that is similar to or completely different from the real
world. Applications of virtual reality include entertainment (e.g.,
video games), education (e.g., medical or military training), and
business (e.g., as virtual meetings). Augmented reality devices are
configured to superimpose images and/or electronic media on a
display presented to modify a user's view of the real world,
wherein the view includes live or transmitted, alone or combined
with or without audio. Virtual reality includes augmented
transmissions of live video, recorded video, live or recorded
images or a series of images, and combinations, with or without
audio.
[0076] In one embodiment, the EM device and/or the smart electronic
device is configured to transmit image and audio data in real-time
and/or near-real-time. Preferably, the EM device and the smart
electronic device are configured to transmit image and audio data
in real-time and/or near-real-time. Additionally, the EM device
and/or the smart electronic device is configured to record the
audio data and the visual data. The EM device is further configured
to transmit the recorded data to the smart electronic device. In
yet another embodiment, the EM device is further configured to time
stamp the visual and audio data (e.g., via the software platform).
Preferably, the smart electronic device is operable to display
timestamp data via the visual display and/or to include timestamp
data saved or otherwise associated with the image, video, and/or
audio data captured or received as input(s) by the EM device. The
EM device is further configured to provide real-time alerts and/or
messages to the smart electronic device. Additionally, the EM
device is configured to receive real-time and/or near real-time
data from the smart electronic device. Advantageously, the smart
electronic device is configured to display the real-time and/or
near-time data (e.g., video data, audio data, image data, alerts,
messages).
[0077] The AI EM system is configured for two-way communication
with the smart electronic device. The AI EM system is configured to
transmit captured audio and/or visual data to the smart electronic
device. The AI EM system is further configured to receive audio
and/or visual data from the smart electronic device. For example
and not limitation, the AI EM system is configured to transmit a
virtual key, a password, and/or other verification means/mechanism
(e.g. a collection of images to be verified) to the smart
electronic device. The smart electronic device is then configured
to receive input related to the virtual key, password and/or other
verification means (e.g., from a user device). In one embodiment,
the verification means includes the EM device receiving a selection
of at least one image based on a prompt. The smart electronic
device is configured to receive at least one image selection
including but not limited to, via a control mechanism attached to
the smart electronic device. For example, and not limitation, the
control mechanism includes, but is not limited to, a button, a
virtual button, a switch, a virtual switch, a dial, a virtual dial,
and/or a graphical user interface (GUI) configured to select at
least one image and/or other verification means. Alternatively, in
one embodiment, the smart electronic device and/or smart electronic
wearable device is configured to track the motion of a user's head
via a camera and to determine where a user is looking based on head
position. Alternatively, or additionally, the smart electronic
device is further configured to track the rotation and/or
orientation of a user based on at least one sensor. For example,
and not limitation, the at least one sensor includes an
accelerometer and/or a gyroscope. The smart electronic device is
further operable to track the user's eye position(s). In one
embodiment, AI EM system is configured to identify which image is
selected based on the duration of time that a user looked at an
image. In yet another embodiment, the smart electronic device is
configured to display a virtual keypad. In one embodiment, the
smart electronic device monitors a user's hand position in relation
the virtual keypad and receives a password, code, and/or answer to
a security question based on the user's hand position.
[0078] The smart electronic device is further configured to capture
audio and/or visual data (e.g., an image, video) of a user and an
environment surrounding the user. The smart electronic device is
further operable to transmit the captured audio and/or visual data
to the EM device. The EM device is operable to perform image,
audio, and/or video analysis on the audio and/or visual data
obtained from the at least smart wearable device. The image, audio,
and/or video analysis includes, but is not limited to, recognition
of at least one person, at least one weapon, at least one action,
and/or at least one sound. Advantageously, the EM device is
configured to compare the audio and/or visual data captured by the
smart electronic device with historical visual and/or audio data.
In one embodiment, the EM device is configured to generate an alert
and/or message based on the comparison of the audio and/or visual
data with the historical audio and/or visual data.
[0079] In another example, the smart electronic device is
configured for use by an owner of a dwelling and/or housing,
property owner for commercial buildings, property management
entity, etc. The smart electronic device is configured to receive
the audio and/or visual data from the EM device. For example, and
not limitation, a virtual reality headset is worn by an owner who
is engaged with an immersive virtual reality environment. The
virtual reality headset is configured to display the audio and/or
visual data from the EM device via a virtual reality display.
Advantageously, the virtual reality headset is further configured
to generate a prompt in the virtual reality environment and is
operable to receive input (e.g., from the wearer of the virtual
reality headset (e.g., based on audio command, entry into a GUI,
etc.)). In one embodiment, the input includes an action for the EM
system based on the audio and/or visual data. For example, and not
limitation, the prompt includes whether an individual should be
granted access to enter the housing or dwelling. If the smart
wearable device receives a command to grant access to the
individual, then the smart electronic device is configured to send
a command to the EM device to disengage the lock. This enables a
home owner to still receive updates and maintain security while
immersed in a virtual reality environment.
[0080] Advantageously, the AI EM system is operable to provide a
duration of time for an access point to be unlocked. For example,
and not limitation, after an individual has been authorized to
enter through an access point, the EM device is configured to
provide a duration of time to remain unlocked. Once the duration of
time has lapsed, then the EM device is configured to send a command
to the electronic lock to engaged and lock an access point.
Furthermore, the EM system is configured to transmit a message
and/or alert to the smart electronic device to indicate the
duration of time that the access point will be unlocked.
Advantageously, the EM system is operable to generate an alert
and/or message when the duration of time is expiring and to
transmit a prompt to the smart electronic device to determine if
the duration of time needs to be extended.
[0081] In another example, the AI EM system is configured for use
with a third-party. For example, and not limitation, the AI EM
system includes a software platform in network communication with a
third-party. For example, and not limitation, a third-party
includes a security management company, a first responder, police,
homeowners, business owners, and/or property management companies.
The AI EM system is configured to transmit audio and/or visual data
relating to a smart electronic device detected by the EM device
and/or a network device. The third party is operable to send a
command to the electronic lock based on the transmitted audio
and/or visual data.
[0082] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the AI
device is configured to learn various inputs. An AI device is
configured to learn from past events and learn to recognize or
predict when a particular person is arriving or departing from a
dwelling and produce messages or questions that correspond with a
recognized person or event. The AI EM system is further configured
to learn to associate features of a person or vehicle to verify a
person or a company. For example, the AI EM system is configured to
use the camera to take pictures when a delivery person arrives and
to further analyze these pictures for logos or emblems to identify
a person approaching the AI EM device. The camera is further
operable to detect emblems, logos, color or uniforms, hat shapes,
etc. Likewise, an exemplary AI EM system is configured to detect
threats including masks or a weapon, such as a gun or knife. In the
event that a threat is detected, a robot, land or aerial, is
configured to record images and/or video of the threat and is
further configured to follow said threat as they leave the area. A
robot is operable to communicate, such as by transmitting data
(e.g., video and/or audio data, position data, such as through a
global positioning system (GPS)) to at least one user device of an
administrator and/or emergency authorities to aid in tracking and
locating said threat, such as said third party. The AI EM system is
operable to control the robot without input from the administrator
to record images and/or follow a threat. In one embodiment, the
robot includes artificial intelligence embedded in the robot and
acts independently to recognize threats, record threat data,
images, and video, and/or follow a threat. A robot is further
configured to receive packages (e.g., from a delivery person) and
to transport the package to a secondary location, such as within a
dwelling or another building, or to a storage container. The access
point is configured to be unlocked by the system for the robot to
deliver a package. Likewise, a robot is configured to retrieve a
package through an access point and deliver the package to a person
or other robot at the location.
[0083] Accordingly, in one embodiment, the present invention is
directed to an AI EM system comprising an AI EM device including a
housing comprising: a camera, a microphone, a speaker, a
controller, a wireless communication device, an access point
including an electronic lock that is controlled by the controller
to lock and unlock said access point, an AI device in communication
with the AI EM device including a processor with a non-transitory
computer readable storage medium comprising software having program
instructions configured for providing AI to the AI EM device, a
robot having a wireless signal transceiver that communicates with
the controller of the AI EM device, wherein the AI EM device is
configured to work on a networkable platform with networked
software accessible and interactive with said AI EM device and
member devices running the networked software and participating on
the networkable platform, wherein the networkable platform is
configured for communication between said member devices including
member devices of owners, service personnel, property management,
real estate professionals, short term rentals, hotels, and
employees, wherein the networkable platform is configured to
provide access and logistics to access points. The camera is
adapted to read a virtual key, and upon verifying the virtual key,
the software of the AI device is configured to unlock said
electronic lock to said access point. The software of the AI device
is configured to provide a logistic message via the speaker
including directions to the access point. In one embodiment, the
robot includes a robot speaker. In one embodiment, the robot speak
is operable to emit the logistic message and/or the contextual
greeting. In one embodiment, the robot is configured to open the
access point. In one embodiment, the robot includes a package
manipulator configured to retain and release a package, wherein the
robot is configured to move a package from a first location to a
second location. The robot preferably includes a robot camera
configured to take images. In one embodiment, the robot includes an
AI device that is configured to identify a package or a threat from
an image taken by the robot camera. In one embodiment, the threat
is a person. The robot is configured to take images of said threat
and transmit said image of said threat to said AI EM system or a
user device of an authority. The robot is configured to track the
threat and configured to transmit a location of said threat to said
AI EM system or the authority user device. The robot is configured
to take an image of a vehicle related to the threat and is
configured to transmit said image of the vehicle to the AI EM
system or an authority. In one embodiment, the AI EM system further
includes a docking station for the robot. In one embodiment, the
docking station includes a charging port to charge a battery on the
robot when said robot is docked on the docking station. In one
embodiment, the docking station also includes an interchangeable
battery configured to be exchanged with a battery on the robot when
the robot is docked on the docking station. The docking station is
also operable to receive power from a renewable power source (e.g.,
solar power). The docking station includes a motion detector in one
embodiment. The docking station is configured to monitor a
substantial portion of a perimeter of a building having said access
point. In one embodiment, at least 80% of the perimeter is
monitored by the motion detector. In one embodiment, the docking
station also includes a speaker. The docking station is also
preferably configured to emit an alarm. In another embodiment, the
docking station includes a motion detector. In one embodiment, the
alarm is emitted when motion above a threshold motion is detected
by the motion detector. A plurality of robots and a plurality of
docking stations are also operable to be provided. In one
embodiment, the plurality of robots are configured to dock on said
docking stations. In one embodiment, the docking stations are
configured around a building configured on a property. In one
embodiment, the property includes said access point. In one
embodiment, the plurality of robots each includes a robot camera
that is configured to take images. In one embodiment, the plurality
of robots are configured to monitor a substantial portion of a
perimeter of the building. In one embodiment, at least 80% of the
perimeter is monitored by said cameras on said plurality of robots.
Each of the plurality of robots includes a microphone that is
configured to record sounds. In one embodiment, the robot (e.g.,
each of the plurality of robots) includes a controller. In one
embodiment, the robot acts autonomously from the EM device to
monitor a perimeter around a building. Each of the plurality robots
includes a speaker that is configured to emit an alarm when a
threat is detected. Additionally, in one embodiment, each of the
plurality robots includes a light that is configured to turn on
when a threat is detected. In one example, a first robot of the
plurality of robots communicates a location of said first robot to
a second robot of the plurality of robots to follow a threat. The
plurality of robots is operable to include aerial robots that
follow a threat. In one embodiment, the plurality of robots is
operable to form a robot swarm around said threat. A mobile device
that interfaces with the AI EM system is also operable to be
included in the present system. In one embodiment, the mobile
device is configured to activate the robot to monitor a substantial
portion of a perimeter. The robot is also configured to conduct
surveillance routes from the docking station. The robot includes a
deterrent device in one embodiment, such as a pepper sprayer or a
weapon such as a gun, knife or spear.
[0084] A robot includes, but is not limited to, a land or aerial
robot, wherein the land robot moves over land and wherein the
aerial robot is configured to fly. In one embodiment, an aerial
robot includes one or more propellers. In one embodiment, a land
robot includes a wheel or wheels, actuating legs or treads for
movement over land. In yet another embodiment, a robot is
configured to monitor an area around a dwelling or building, such
as a place of business, with a camera. In one embodiment, a robot
is instrumental in creating the geofence area. In one embodiment, a
camera includes a thermal camera that more effectively detects when
a person or animal is moving about a building. A thermal camera is
configured to capture still digital images or video. In one
embodiment, a robot is configured to dock with a docking station
wherein the robot is charged, or exchanges batteries. The docking
station is operable to be hard wired to receive electricity from
the dwelling or place of business to charge the robot or the
batteries for the robot, and/or the docking station is operable to
be coupled with a renewable power supply, such as a wind generator
(wind turbine), or a solar generator, such as a photovoltaic cell
(solar panel). The docking station is further configured in
strategic positions about the dwelling or place of business to
provide effective monitoring. For example, four robots are
configured with one at each corner of the home. The robots and/or
the docking stations are configured to provide a substantially
complete perimeter monitoring of the building, dwelling or place of
business. In one embodiment, at least 80% or more of the perimeter
is captured by a camera of the plurality of robots. In a preferred
embodiment, at least 90% or more of the perimeter is captured by a
camera of the plurality of robots. In a more preferred embodiment,
at least 95% or more of the perimeter is captured by a camera of
the plurality of robots. In a most preferred embodiment, 100% of
the perimeter is monitored and there is overlap in the monitored
area from one robot to another robot.
[0085] In one embodiment, a docking station is further configured
under an overhang or eaves of a building or under the rain gutter
of the building for protection from the elements. An aerial robot
is operable to dock on top of the docking station between the
overhang and the docking station. In one embodiment, an aerial
robot includes a docking extension the enables the aerial robot to
dock to the docking station from underneath of the docking station
or horizontally with the docking station. In another embodiment, a
docking station includes a docking cover that is configured to
extend over the aerial robot to protect the aerial robot from the
elements. In yet another embodiment, the docking cover is
transparent to enable surveillance by the aerial robot when docked
under the docking cover. In one embodiment, a docking station
includes a light that acts as an exterior light or flood light
around the building and this light is configured to illuminate an
area around the building, thereby improving the surveillance of the
docking station or aerial robot.
[0086] In one embodiment, the robots (e.g., aerial robots) are
configured to monitor or conduct surveillance using a camera and/or
a microphone. The robot is further operable to be programmed to
focus in on any movement detected above some threshold of movement,
and/or follow a person entering a geofence region or area around a
dwelling or access point. The robots are further operable to
capture images, photographs, audio, and/or video, of a person
entering such an area. In addition, the robots further include
lights and these lights are operable to be programmed to activate
when motion is detected or a sound is detected. The lights include,
but are not limited to, bright lights, such as flood light,
producing about 500 lumens or more, or about 500 lumens or more,
about 1,000 lumens or more, about 2,500 lumens or more, about 5,000
lumens or more and any range between and including the lumens
provided. In addition, in another embodiment, the robots are
configured with a speaker that is configured to produce an alarm
when an intruder is detected, such as motion above a threshold
motion being detected or sound above a threshold sound being
detected. In yet another embodiment, the lights are any suitable
color and are operable to flash in an alarm mode. In one
embodiment, the lights are operable to flash in an alarm mode while
an alarm sound is emitted from the speaker. The AI EM system, such
as a computer or mobile device, such as a mobile phone or a smart
wearable device as described herein, is operable to activate the
surveillance mode of the robots (e.g., after receiving input from a
user device via a user interface). Also, the AI EM system is
operable to activate an alarm mode to cause the robot(s) to produce
flashing lights and/or an alarm sound from their speakers (e.g.,
after receiving input from a user device). The AI EM system is
further operable to receive an input to activate a light mode
(e.g., from a user device), wherein the lights on the robot are
turned on. The robots include aerial robots that are configured
around the home and the lights on the robots improve the visibility
around the home, for example.
[0087] An exemplary AI EM system includes a robot, such as a land
or aerial robot, that is configured to move packages from a first
location to second location, monitor a delivery location and/or
communicate with people such as a delivery person. In one
embodiment, a robot includes a speaker, such as a directional
speaker, to enable communication with a third party to provide a
greeting and/or logistic information to said third party. The
speaker is operable to transmit a message that was recorded by a
user or an administrator, such as specific instructions including
logistic instructions. When a delivery person arrives and is
identified by the robot, the pre-recorded message is emitted
through the robot speaker. In addition, the AI EM system is
operable to send a notification to a user device when a person
arrives at the building or home. The user device is configured to
display a video captured by the camera on the robot and to
communicate with the person in real-time through the robot speaker.
For example, and not limitation, the user provides a greeting and
then provides specific instructions for delivery of a package. The
robot is configured to receive communication from a user mobile
device such as a mobile phone or a smart wearable device as
described herein.
[0088] In another embodiment, a robot is configured to lead the
delivery person to an access point for delivering the package. An
exemplary robot is configured to take a package (e.g., from a
delivery person) and deliver the package to an access point, such
as inside a building or into a storage container. A directional
speaker is operable to enable communication with a third party with
some level of privacy. In one embodiment, only the person the
speaker is directed at effectively hears the communication. Also, a
directional speaker is operable to enable effective communication
from an aerial robot wherein the communication, such as logistic
instructions, is heard by a third party over noise made by the
aerial robot from the propellers, for example. In one embodiment,
the robot is further configured to receive audio data (e.g., from a
user device) relating to an administrator or authorities, and is
configured to play the audio data through the robot speaker to
enable an administrator and/or authorities to communicate via the
robot. In one embodiment, a robot is configured to pick up a
delivery package using a package manipulator and deliver the
package to a delivery location, which includes, but is not limited
to, a storage container or a secondary location (e.g., to a back
porch or fenced in area) for added security. In an exemplary
embodiment, an aerial robot is operable to guide or direct a
delivery person to a delivery location. An aerial robot is operable
to be used for monitoring a delivery location and provides input to
a geofence or MDA and provides input to the exemplary AI EM system
if someone intrudes into a geofence location. An exemplary AI EM
system is configured to direct and control a robot to investigate
abnormalities in a geofenced area, MDA, or surrounding area, such
as when a noise is detected. Likewise, an exemplary robot is be
configured to follow and record a delivery to an access point, to
ensure the delivery is made.
[0089] In one embodiment, an aerial robot is small in size, or
micro-robots, having a length, width and height of no more than
about 25 mm, or even no more than about 10 mm. These micro aerial
robots are inconspicuous and easy to dock around the building.
[0090] In yet another embodiment, a drone swarm is utilized to
follow, track, and deter threats. A drone swarm is defined as two
or more robots, such as aerial robots, also referred to as drones,
that follow a threat (e.g., an individual). In one example, a drone
swarm is operable to follow a person that has stolen a package
delivered to an access point, or a storage container or that has
breached a geofence area or a monitored designated are or areas
(MDA) created by the AI EM device in the view of the camera.
[0091] An exemplary AI EM device is configured to work on a
networkable platform with networked software accessible and
interactive with the EM device and member devices running the
networked software and participating on the networkable platform.
In one embodiment, the networkable platform is configured for
communication between said member devices including member devices
of owners, service personnel, property management, real estate
professionals, short term rentals, hotels, and/or employees. In one
embodiment, the networkable platform is configured to provide
access and logistics to access points.
[0092] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is the
software of the AI device is operable to perform name and/or facial
recognition. In one embodiment, the software of the AI device is
operable to relate to the occupants of a building by the EM
device.
[0093] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the
software of the AI device is further operable to enable the EM
device to establish contact, record messages, or deliver a message.
In one embodiment, the software of the AI device is further
operable to enable the EM device to establish contact, record
messages, or deliver a message using the name and/or facial
recognition.
[0094] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the AI
device is operable to interface with other AI devices.
[0095] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that when
the EM device is activated by motion, the detection of a paired
mobile device, the presentation of a virtual key, or the
owner/administrator user device, the EM device is configured to
cause the programming instructions of the software to activate or
turn on the AI EM system.
[0096] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the AI
device is configured to cause the EM device to detect the person
and interpret voice detected by the microphone from the person.
[0097] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the
intelligent response provided by the AI device includes logistics,
a greeting, a command, directions, a message, an inquire, a
recording request, an alarm to the speaker, the like, and/or
combinations thereof.
[0098] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the
wireless communication device is operable to establish the identity
of the person or the user device once paired. In one embodiment,
after pairing, the AI device is configured to recognize the user
device and provide a customized greeting, specific instructions,
access, or actions for the associated device.
[0099] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the AI
device is further operable to require authentication of an image or
mobile device that is active and unlocked, the device must be
active, or combinations thereof, prior to providing the customized
greeting, the specific instructions, access, or the actions for the
associated device.
[0100] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the AI
device is configured to recognize the previously paired mobile
device and a virtual key or an identification sequence. In one
embodiment, if there is not a confirmed identification, the system
seeks a third-party authentication. In one embodiment, the
third-party authentication is an embedded code within the virtual
key, and/or an audible or verbal response code including a word or
words, a sentence, a number or numbers, sounds, and/or letters.
[0101] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the
virtual key utilized includes a humanly created mark, drawing,
written sequence of numbers, letters, abstract sketch, or picture.
In one embodiment a virtual key includes a digital photograph that
an administrator user device is configured to send to a third party
for entry. For example, and not limitation, the digital photograph
is from the administrator's library of photographs. In one
embodiment, a virtual key includes words, letters, and the like. In
another embodiment, a virtual key further includes a particular
motion across a touchscreen, such as the display screen of the AI
EM device. For example, and not limitation, a virtual key that is
from an administrator's personal photo library or stored on the
administrator's user device in their photo gallery is a
personalized virtual key. Also, in one embodiment, the present
invention AI EM system is configured to create a virtual key based
on input received (e.g., from a touch screen of the administrator's
user device). Another example of a personalized virtual key
includes a specific zig-zag pattern. An application software is
part of the AI EM system and is operable to create a unique
personalized virtual key through taking a photograph or using the
touchscreen to draw out a virtual key (e.g., via user input). This
application or subroutine is opened when a new authorization for
entry in entered into the system. The system is operable to ask for
the person's name, contact information, time or entry, or span of
time, access point to be unlocked and for any messages to be
delivered to the person/entrant upon receiving the virtual key to
the AI EM device. A personalized virtual key includes a digital
file that is created on or stored on an administrator's electronic
device and therefore is more secure than a virtual key that is
generic.
[0102] A virtual key is operable to be used as an electronic device
or file virtual key. In one embodiment, the virtual key is used to
unlock an electronic device or a file in an electronic device. In
one embodiment, a computer is operable to require a virtual key to
be shown to a camera (e.g., a camera coupled to the computer)
before the computer will unlock for use. In one embodiment, the
virtual key takes the place of a password that is typed into the
computer. Passwords can be hacked and stolen, but a virtual key is
much more difficult to obtain as it is configured on a separate
electronic device or a separate physical item. Likewise, a virtual
key is operable to be used to unlock a file on an electronic
device. The computer is operable to request that a virtual key be
verified by showing the virtual key to the camera of the computer
before a file is operable to be opened. Again, this is very
difficult for a hacker to obtain.
[0103] An exemplary AI EM system requires a plurality of virtual
keys to be shown or displayed prior to verification and unlocking
of a locked access point. For example, and not limitation, the AI
EM system is configured to request two or more images via the user
device. The AI EM system is configured to receive data relating to
the two or more images via the user device. In one embodiment, the
AI EM system is further configured to determine whether the digital
images, such as digital photographs, were presented in a specific
sequence to produce the virtual key. The AI EM system is further
operable to send the digital photographs in a single file and/or
send them as separate files for security purposes. In one
embodiment, a virtual key requires the AI EM system to receive a
selection of digital images via a display screen of the AI EM
device. The AI EM device is further operable to display a plurality
of images, such as four or more images. THE AI EM device is
configured to receive a selection of at least one of the plurality
of images via the user device to produce the virtual key. Again,
the AI EM system is operable to send the images to the user device
so the user knows which images to select on the display screen of
the AI EM device. Furthermore, the AI EM system, in one embodiment,
is configured to receive a selection of at least one digital image
and/or virtual key via touch screen 17 prior to granting entry. In
one embodiment, for example, and not limitation, the AI EM system
receives a selection of a plurality of digital images to produce a
virtual key and the image virtual key requires each image virtual
key 50, 50', 50'' to be selected in a specific sequence, such as
balloon, dog, cat. In one embodiment, a plurality of other digital
images 66 or photographs are also be displayed on the display
screen during the selection or entry of the virtual key.
[0104] A system administrator device or the AI EM system is
operable to automatically send an image virtual key to a user
device, such as to a mobile electronic device, such as a mobile
phone or a smart wearable device as described herein. The virtual
key is viewable via the user's electronic device and then
selectable via the touch screen. In another embodiment, the AI EM
system is configured to enable entry of the image virtual key by
selection of the correct images only when the user device is within
a certain range of the EM device. Again, the images must be
selected in a specific order. The AI EM system is operable to send
image virtual keys to a user device based on a predetermined time.
In one example, the AI EM system sends image virtual keys to a
cleaning professional's electronic device prior to their weekly
scheduled arrival. Then, when the cleaning professional device is
detected within range of the EM device, the EM device is operable
to communicate with the cleaning professional's electronic device
to send the image virtual key for selection by the cleaning
professional device. The user device (e.g., a smart wearable
device) is further operable to display a plurality of digital
images. The user device is operable to receive a selection of the
image virtual key via a touch screen and/or other user
interfaces.
[0105] In an alternative embodiment, a virtual key includes a
biometric identifier of a user, such as a fingerprint of a user
recognized by a fingerprint scanner or facial features of a user
recognized by facial recognition software of the EM device or by
facial recognition software of a platform in network communication
with the EM device. A database stored in the platform stores
biometric data and grants certain permissions to each user based on
the biometric data received from the user. For example, the AI EM
system is configured to grant a user access to the garage based on
verification of the user's biometric data. The AI EM system is
further configured to grant a user access to the entirety of a
house based on verification of the user's biometric data.
[0106] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the
wireless communication device of the EM device is operable for
exchanging data between the EM device and fixed and/or mobile
devices over short distances using Wi-Fi or UHF radio waves in the
industrial, scientific and medical radio bands (e.g., from 2.402
GHz to 2.480 GHz), and building personal area networks (PANs)
(e.g., Bluetooth.RTM. (Bluetooth trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG,
Inc. of Kirkland, Wash.)).
[0107] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the AI
EM system is configured to notify designated security
personnel.
[0108] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the EM
device is configured to work on a networkable platform with
networked software accessible and interactive with any other
devices running the networked software and participating on the
networkable platform. In one embodiment, the networkable platform
is configured for use by a variety of members including owners,
service personnel, property management, real estate professionals,
short term rentals, hotels, employees, the like, etc. In one
embodiment, the networkable platform is operable to provide access
and logistics to additional industries and uses.
[0109] In select embodiments of the disclosed AI EM system, a
transponder device is included. The transponder device is
configured to utilize a global positioning system or a wireless
communication to identify a mobile device and begin to transmit a
signal for easy identification and detection. In select
embodiments, the transponder is configured to be attached to a
stationary object, a door, a room, a building box, and/or a storage
container. In one embodiment, upon the EM device detecting the
device, the programming instructions of the software is also
configured to: send out an audible noise, illuminate, provide
mapping instructions or directions to the mobile device to provide
guidance in locating a specific location of the stationary object,
door, room, building box, or the storage container via the speaker;
illuminate lights on the EM device; provide a mapping direction on
the device including: an exact location; a location inside a
building, a building without a geo address, a container, a storage
unit; the like; and/or combinations thereof. As such, another
feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the transponder
device is configured to take over where a global positioning system
ends to guide the person or the device to a specific location
inside a geofence or outside a geofence. Another feature of the
disclosed AI EM system is that the EM device is operable to utilize
the global positioning system, Wi-Fi, RF, or a wireless
communication to identify a mobile device previously paired and
initiate actions including messages, access, logistics to guide the
person or the device to the specific location such that the geo
position of the EM device activates various actions. Another
feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that when the transponder
is activated and detects the person or the device within a set
range, the transponder device is further configured to emit a
signal, a sound, a light, or input to the device configured to
guide and direct the person or the device to the specific
location.
[0110] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the
camera is operable to read a virtual key (e.g., presented from a
user device and/or a user) and upon reading the virtual key, the EM
device is further configured to unlock an access point, provide a
greeting, instructions or logistics, record a message, or establish
contact with the individual requested. In select embodiments, the
virtual key includes a humanly created image selected from a group
consisting of: a humanly created photo; a humanly created picture;
a humanly created drawing; a humanly created mark; a humanly
created number or numbers; a humanly created letter or letters; a
humanly created word or words; the like; and/or combinations
thereof.
[0111] In select embodiments of the disclosed AI EM system, the
access point includes a delivery storage container or mailbox. In
these embodiments, the EM device is operable to lock and unlock the
delivery storage container or mailbox. In select embodiments, the
delivery storage container or mailbox include a refrigerated
compartment on an inside of the delivery storage container or
mailbox. In one embodiment, the refrigerated compartment is
configured for food or other refrigerated items. In select
embodiments, the refrigerated compartment is a first portion of the
inside of the delivery storage container, and a second portion of
the inside of the delivery storage container is configured for
parcels. In other select embodiments, the refrigerated compartment
is the entire inside of the delivery storage container. Yet in
other select embodiments, the refrigerated compartment is the
entire inside of a first delivery storage container and a second
delivery storage container is configured for parcels. In other
select embodiments, the delivery storage container or mailbox
includes a warmer on the inside of the delivery storage container
or mailbox. The warmer is configured to warm the inside of the
delivery storage container or mailbox. The AI EM system is further
configured to control the delivery storage container or mailbox
with the ability to select warmer, refrigerated, parcel, or a
combination thereof per section of the delivery storage container
or mailbox.
[0112] In select embodiments, the delivery storage container or
mailbox is positioned just inside a door of a home and the EM
system is configured to unlock and lock the door of the home for
deliveries to the delivery storage container or mailbox. In one
embodiment, the position of the delivery storage container or
mailbox is configured to prevent the need for deliveries to be
walked through the house to the kitchen. A feature of the delivery
storage container or mailbox is the inclusion of an ultraviolet
light on an inside. The ultraviolet light is configured for
sanitizing the inside of the delivery storage container or mailbox
including sanitizing any parcels placed in the inside of the
delivery storage container or mailbox.
[0113] In select embodiments, the delivery storage container or
mailbox include the EM device on an outside of the delivery storage
container or mailbox. The EM device is configured in a separate
location from the storage container, however.
[0114] The AI EM system is further configured to produce an alarm
including an alarm noise and/or light. The alarm utilizes a light
and/or speaker that is part of the EM device and/or the storage
container. In select embodiments, the delivery storage container
and/or the EM device produces an alarm when the storage container
is jostled or opened without authorization. A closure sensor is
operable to detect the position of the closure to the storage
container and when the closure is opened without authorization, an
alarm is initiated. In another embodiment, the storage container
further includes a global positioning device, that is used by the
AI EM system to monitor the location of the storage container. If
the storage container is moved beyond a threshold distance from a
set location, such as beyond the perimeter of an administrator's
property, the AI EM system is operable to initiate an alarm. In
this situation, the alarm is initiated on the storage container, in
an effort to prevent the storage container from being stolen and an
alert notification is sent to a user device corresponding to an
administrator and/or authorities, such as the police. An exemplary
storage container includes an accelerometer that detects if motion
of the storage container. Again, if the storage container is j
ostled, such as when trying to be opened without authorization, an
alarm is initiated to deter the thief. By way of example and not
limitation, an alarm includes a light and/or sound emitted from the
storage container and/or EM device and an alert is sent to a user
device corresponding to an administrator when an alarm is
activated.
[0115] A light on a delivery storage container is configured for
illuminating the delivery storage container and area around the
delivery storage container or mailbox. In one embodiment, a speaker
on a delivery storage container is configured to communicate with a
delivery person and provide logistic instructions regarding a
delivery, such as which compartment to deliver a package into. In
other select embodiments, the delivery storage container or mailbox
includes a power source being selected from a group consisting of a
wired power source; a battery-operated power source; a solar power
source; the like; and/or a combination thereof. In other select
embodiments, the delivery storage container or mailbox includes a
warmer configured to heat the inside of the delivery storage
container or mailbox. In other select embodiments, the delivery
storage container or mailbox includes a wireless connection
configured to control the delivery storage device or mailbox via a
mobile device or a personal computer, including being configured to
control the locking and unlocking of the delivery storage container
or mailbox, controlling the temperature inside of the delivery
storage container or mailbox via the warmer or the refrigerated
compartment, the ultraviolet light inside of the delivery storage
container or mailbox, or combinations thereof.
[0116] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the
camera is operable to be adapted to read a virtual key from the
person or the device, and upon reading the virtual key, the EM
device is further configured to activate a drone to retrieve
deliveries from a specific location.
[0117] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the EM
device is configured as a receptionist device for corporate,
commercial, institutional or industrial applications. The
receptionist device is configured to provide custom messages for
each occupant and for receiving and recording custom messages for
each user. The receptionist device is operable to forward
information wirelessly to each occupant, or information is
retrieved from the EM device by displaying a virtual key assigned
to each occupant. Another feature of the receptionist device is
that the EM system includes a plurality the EM devices configured
as the receptionist device for corporate, commercial, institutional
or industrial applications. In one embodiment, each of the
plurality of EM devices is operable to interact and communicate
with each other, whereby the plurality of EM devices is configured
to relay messages to the occupant.
[0118] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the
microphone is operable to identify an audible key from the person
or the device. Upon identifying the audible key via the microphone,
the EM device is operable to unlock an access point or provide a
greeting, information, or logistics. In select embodiments, the
audible key includes a word, words, a sentence, a number, a sound
or sounds, wherein the microphone is configured to match the
audible key with the person or device. In select embodiments, the
EM device is configured to assign audible keys to a variety of
users, whereby the EM device is further configured to provide
access or information to each of the variety of users. In other
select embodiments, the EM device is configured to maintain a
record of each of the variety of users. Yet in other select
embodiments, the EM device is configured to record audible
messages.
[0119] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM system is that the AI
EM system is configured to record data, such as interactions with
the system including, but not limited to, audio recordings, video
recordings, dates, times, third person identification, such as
electronic address, dates and/or times of entry, what access point
was locked or unlocked, dates and times of system breaches, such as
a lock being opened without access, or a storage container being
moved. A sensor is operable to monitor the lock status of a lock on
an access point, including a lock on a storage container for
delivery. In addition, in one embodiment, a storage container
includes a motion sensor or a GPS as described herein and the
system is operable to record if the storage container is tampered
with or record a location if it is stolen and moved to a new
location. The AI EM system is further operable to keep records of
the virtual keys used for entry. This recorded data is stored and
secured on a database or computer storage drive such that only a
system administrator is granted access to this recorded data.
[0120] In a further embodiment, a software platform of the AI EM
system is operable to analyze images, video, audio, or any other
content provided by the AI EM system to provide data such as foot
traffic analytics, length of visits for customers, an amount of
time spend browsing particular items or sections of items, and wait
times for customers. The AI EM system is operable to create
customer profiles based on this information and retrieve
information from the customer profile for use at a later date, such
as when a customer returns and is recognized by the AI EM system
via facial recognition, scanning a code or image by the AI entry
device, audial identification by the customer of their identity, or
any other method described herein.
[0121] In another embodiment, the platform of the present invention
provides for automated follow ups with customers or visitors to a
retail space or office space. By way of example, the software
platform of the AI EM system collects contact information
associated with visitors such as an email address, phone number, or
social profile account through manual entry from a device in
network connection with the AI EM system or through identification
of this contact information through web crawling or internet
searches based on a customer's name, facial recognition, or any
other method of identification of a person described herein. In one
embodiment, information is extracted from a social media profile
such as LINKEDIN, FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, TWITTER, or any other
website or platform. For example, the information includes a job
title, a company of employment, and/or hobbies and interests from a
social media profile. By way of example, visitors to an office
receive an email message (e.g., via the visitor's mobile device)
including a survey, follow up on services provided, or solicitation
from the business associated with the office 1 week after their
visit to the office.
[0122] In another aspect, the instant disclosure embraces an AI EM
system with a plurality of EM devices. Each of the plurality of EM
devices are operable to be the disclosed EM device in any of the
various embodiments and/or combination of embodiments shown and/or
described herein. As such, in general, each of the EM devices are
configured for use with an AI device in communication with the EM
device including a processor with a non-transitory computer
readable storage medium comprising software having program
instructions configured for providing AI to the EM device. A
network platform in communication with each of the plurality of EM
devices is also included. The network platform is configured to
allow each of the plurality of EM devices to communication with
each other.
[0123] In select embodiments of the disclosed AI EM system with a
plurality of EM devices, the plurality of EM devices are installed
in a neighborhood. In one embodiment, each of the plurality of EM
devices is configured to communicate if a burglary occurs in any
other house or activate and pan the streets to record all traffic
activity.
[0124] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular embodiments only and is not intended to limiting of the
disclosure. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all
combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As used
herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to
include the plural forms as well as the singular forms, unless the
contest clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood
that the terms "compromises" and/or "comprising" when used in this
specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps,
operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the
presence of addition of one or more other features, steps,
operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.
[0125] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and
scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly
understood by one having ordinary skill in the art to which this
disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such
as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be
interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their
meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present
disclosure and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly
formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
[0126] A storage container, as used herein, is a receptable
configured for receiving a package and includes a lock that is
controlled by the AI EM system, and is further configured to be a
portable storage container that is operable to be moved to a
desired location or a storage container that is fixed in a
location, such as a mailbox. In one embodiment, a storage container
is an example of an access point that is locked and unlocked by the
AI EM system.
[0127] A smart-home system, as used herein, is a system that
utilizes electronic locks to lock and unlock entry ways, such as
doors to a building such as a home or place of business from a
remote source, such as a mobile device or mobile phone or a smart
wearable device as described herein. A smart-home system, in one
embodiment, further includes subsystems to turn on or off lights,
set the temperature on a home heating or air conditioning system
and the like.
[0128] Referring now to FIGS. 1-7, in describing the exemplary
embodiments of the present disclosure, specific terminology is
employed for the sake of clarity. The present disclosure, however,
is not intended to be limited to the specific terminology so
selected, and it is to be understood that each specific element
includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner
to accomplish similar functions. Embodiments of the claims may,
however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be
construed to be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The
examples set forth herein are non-limiting examples and are merely
examples among other possible examples.
[0129] Referring now to FIGS. 1-7, in a preferred embodiment, the
present invention overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages and
meets the recognized need for such an apparatus or method by
providing of a smart-home system 11 having an AI EM device 10 for
an EM system 100. Advantageously, the smart-home system 11 is
operable to include a plurality of internet of things (IoT) or
smart home devices which are in network communication with the AI
EM device 10 or operable for one-way communication or two-way
communication with the AI EM device 10 or a platform connected to
the AI EM device 10. In one example, the AI EM device 10 is
operable to send a command to one or more IoT devices based on the
AI EM device 10 scanning a code or an image, recognizing a user
based on audio or video input, or any other method described
herein.
[0130] In an exemplary embodiment, the AI EM device 10 is operable
to communicate with cameras to capture imagery data and track a
person around a property. For example, a camera detects a guest or
intruder using image or audio recognition and alerts the AI EM
device 10 regarding the presence of the guest or intruder. The AI
EM device 10 is operable to send an alert to a device based on this
detection or is operable to command other cameras, robots, or IoT
devices to track, record, communicate with, or otherwise engage
with the guest or intruder. In one embodiment, a prerecorded or
real-time or near real-time recording (e.g., received from a user
device associated with the AI EM device 10) is sent from the AI EM
device 10 to other cameras, robots, or IoT devices for playback in
real-time or near real-time. The recording is operable to be played
aloud by multiple devices simultaneously or sequentially in one
embodiment. Sequential playing of this recording is determined by
which device(s) the intruder is closest to, with the devices
closest to the intruder playing the recording first and devices
further away from the intruder or guest playing the devices next.
These recordings are operable to be repeated by these devices until
an intruder or guest is no longer identified as being on the
property or until a predetermined threshold of number of playbacks
is reached, which causes an alert to be sent to a user device
associated with the AI EM device 10 or to the authorities.
[0131] In one embodiment, the AI EM device 10 is operable to
command and control these cameras based on the detection of an
intruder, a guest, or any other event. For example, a camera sends
an image, a video, audio, or a notification of movement detection
to the AI EM device 10, and the AI EM device 10 sends the image,
the video, or the audio to the software platform, and the software
platform uses an AI or machine learning (ML) algorithm or other
algorithm, which in one embodiment includes facial recognition or
action recognition to identify an intruder or a guest. The software
platform then sends a command to the AI EM device 10 to command the
camera to zoom in on the intruder or guest or track the intruder or
guest. In one embodiment, an alert is sent to a user device
associated with the AI EM device 10 that a certain person is on the
property along with an identification of where that person is on
the property (e.g., Karen is in your driveway or Roy is in your
backyard). Alternatively, the AI EM device 10 commands another IoT
device or a camera to zoom in on, track, or otherwise engage with
the guest or intruder. In one embodiment, the AI EM device 10 is
operable to analyze the audio, video, or image using an algorithm
such as an artificial intelligence algorithm or machine learning
algorithm without sending the audio, video, or image to a software
platform. Alternatively, a local computing device such as an edge
device is operable to analyze the audio, video, or image. In one
embodiment, upon detection of an intruder or guest, the EM device
instructs one or more cameras to scan the premises for a vehicle
and capture images of a vehicle. In one embodiment, cameras include
all functionality recited with respect to robots below, including
weapon detection, action detection, etc.
[0132] In one embodiment, one or more cameras in combination with
the AI EM device 10 are operable to detect a delivery of a package,
such as drone delivery of a package and provide an alert to a user
device associated with the AI EM device 10. The one or more cameras
are operable to capture images, video, or audio, and recognize
delivery of a package via a shape of a package or actions
associated with delivering the package, such as a drone landing and
taking off or a delivery person performing the action of delivering
a package. This recognition occurs through software of the cameras,
software of the AI EM device 10 upon images, video, or audio being
sent to the AI EM device 10, or the software platform upon images,
video, or audio being sent to the platform. This is particularly
useful in situations when the delivery location is out of a line of
sight of the AI EM device 10.
[0133] In one embodiment, an AI EM device 10 includes camera 22,
microphone 24, motion detector 14, speaker 18, and housing 12. In
one embodiment, the housing 12 has oval shape 16 with substantially
open middle 20. Substantially open middle 20 includes a housing
protrusion portion 26 configured to house camera 22, microphone 24,
motion detector 14, and speaker 18. Shapes other than oval shapes
(e.g., rectangular, circular, square, etc.) are compatible with the
present invention.
[0134] In another embodiment, plurality of lights 28 are included
with AI EM device 10. Plurality of lights 28 are positioned around
periphery 30 of oval shape 16 of housing 12. In select embodiments,
each of the plurality of lights 28 include a light emitting diode
32, also known as LEDs. One feature is that each of the light
emitting diodes 32 of the plurality of lights 28 are configured to
light up based on sounds emitted from speaker 18. With this
configuration, one feature of the disclosure includes the plurality
of lights 28 are configured to mimic AI EM device 10 as if it were
talking. Another feature includes the plurality of lights 28 are
configured to indicate an alarm has been triggered by flashing.
Another feature includes the plurality of lights 28 are configured
to indicate a status of the AI EM device 10. As shown in the
Figures, and best shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, in select embodiments of
the disclosed AI EM device 10, LED lens 34 are included. LED lens
34 are operable to cover and protect the plurality of lights 28,
like light emitting diodes 32. LED lens 34 include an oval shape 16
of housing 12. Alternative LED lens shapes are compatible with the
present invention. In alternative embodiments, the LED lens
includes a shape similar to that of the housing. For example, and
not limitation, the LED lens is circular when the housing is
circular.
[0135] In one embodiment, mounting bracket 36 is included with AI
EM device 10. Mounting bracket 36 is configured for mounting
housing 12 of AI EM device 10 to surface 38, as shown in FIG. 1.
Mounting bracket 36 includes the oval shape 16 of housing 12.
Alternative mounting bracket shapes are compatible with the present
invention. In one embodiment, a shape of the mounting bracket
matches a shape of the housing. In one example, the mounting
bracket is rectangular for a rectangular housing.
[0136] In another embodiment, power source 40 is included with AI
EM device 10. Power source 40 includes, but is not limited to, a
hardwired power source (as shown in the Figures), a battery powered
power source, a solar power source, the like, or combinations
thereof
[0137] In yet another embodiment, wireless communication device 42
is included with AI EM device 10. Wireless communication device 42
is housed inside of housing protrusion portion 26 of housing 12 of
AI EM device 10. Wireless communication device 42 is operable to
communicate with EM system 100, like a networked software platform,
or the like, or other AI EM devices 10 via a wireless
communication. The wireless communication of wireless communication
device 42 includes, but is not limited to, Wi-Fi; UHF radio waves
in the industrial, scientific and medical radio bands, from 2.402
GHz to 2.480 GHz, and building personal area networks (PANs), also
known as Bluetooth.RTM. (Bluetooth trademark owned by Bluetooth
SIG, Inc. of Kirkland, Wash.); the like; or combinations
thereof.
[0138] One feature of the disclosed AI EM device 10 is that speaker
18 is operable to be positioned in housing protrusion portion 26
and oriented toward substantially open middle 20. This orientation
of speaker 18 allows for projecting sound from speaker 18 out of AI
EM device 10.
[0139] Another feature of the disclosed AI EM device 10 is the
inclusion of a processor and at least one memory. The AI EM device
includes, but is not limited to, a non-transitory computer readable
storage medium including software. The software includes program
instructions configured for providing artificial intelligence to AI
EM device 10. In select embodiments, the software is operable for
development of intelligence within AI EM device 10, including, but
not limited to, speech recognition, problem-solving, learning,
planning, the like, combinations thereof, etc. In select
embodiments of AI EM device 10, the processor includes a networked
processor. The networked processor is connected to AI EM device 10
via a wireless communication to wireless communication device 42 on
AI EM device 10. In other select embodiments, the processor
includes a chipped processor. The chipped processor is housed
inside of AI EM device 10, including, but not limited to, inside of
housing protrusion portion 26 of housing 12 of AI EM device 10.
[0140] In another aspect, the instant disclosure embraces AI EM
system 100. The AI EM system 100 includes, but is not limited to,
utilizing the disclosed AI EM device 10 in any of the various
embodiments and/or combination of embodiments shown and/or
described herein. As such, in general, the disclosed AI EM system
100 includes the disclosed AI EM device 10 with camera 22,
microphone 24, motion detector 14, speaker 18, wireless
communication device 42, the like, and/or combinations thereof. In
addition, AI EM system 100 includes an AI device. The AI device is
in communication with AI EM device 10. The AI device includes a
processor with a non-transitory computer readable storage medium
having software with program instructions configured for providing
artificial intelligence to the AI EM device 10.
[0141] The AI EM device system 100 and AI EM device 10 is operable
to unlock an access point including, but not limited to a door or
gate or a storage container. As shown in FIG. 1, the AI EM device
10 is configured on a dwelling 91, an exemplary access point 90,
and is configured to unlock the door-lock 94 on the door 92 of the
dwelling. Also, the AI EM device 10 is further configured to unlock
the lock 72 on the storage container 70, another access point 90',
to enable retrieval of items therein or delivery of item into the
storage container, or a compartment thereof.
[0142] As shown in FIG. 1, an exemplary AI EM system includes a
robot 110, such as an aerial robot 111, that is operable to use a
package manipulator 114 to pick up and release packages for
movement of a package from a first location to a secondary
location. The aerial robot is configured to fly and is commonly
referred to as a drone. The aerial robot further includes a camera
112 for taking digital photographs or video and is operable to
transfer the photographs and video to the exemplary AI EM system.
The aerial robot is operable to be used for monitoring and
surveillance of a delivery area and is further operable to create
and monitor a geofence and/or MDA after a package has been
delivered. After a package has been delivered, the aerial robot is
operable to monitor an area and take and send images to a user
device of administrator of someone entering a geofence area and/or
an MDA. A robot speaker 116 is operable to be used to communicate
with a third party, such as a delivery person, to provide logistic
instructions for package delivery. A speaker is further operable to
be used as an audible alarm. A microphone 117 is operable to
receive communication from a third party that is provided to an
administrator of the AI EM system, for example. An exemplary robot
has a wireless signal transceiver 118 for communication with the AI
EM system 100 such as the AI EM device 10. The robot is operable to
send photographs, video, audio recordings and the like to the AI EM
system which is operable to transfer the photographs, video, audio
recordings, and the like to a user device of an administrator or a
third party. A robot is further operable to communicate directly
with a user device of an administrator or authority using the
wireless signal transceiver 118. In one embodiment, the robot
includes a controller 113 that incorporates artificial intelligence
to control functions of the robot. The artificial intelligence of
the robot is operable to interface with the artificial intelligence
of the AI EM device, for example. Robot 110, like a drone or a land
robot, is configured to be activated by AI EM system to investigate
any suspicious activity, or threats, determined by the AI device.
Once activated, robot 110, like a drone, is configured to leave its
docking station and investigate such suspicious activities and/or
threats. Whereby, robot 110 or drone is operable to relay
information, like images, back to the system, issue a command to
the suspicious activity or threat, and follow or track the
individuals or vehicles, like by transmitting images of the
vehicle, license plate, color, make, etc., as well as providing
locational information or direction information of such suspicions
activities and/or threats. As such, robot 110, such as a drone, is
operable to act as a deterrent for suspicious activities or
threats. In one embodiment, a robot includes a light 119 that is
activated when a motion or sound above a threshold value is
detected. The robot speaker 116 is further operable to emit an
alarm and the robot light 119 is operable to flash a color when a
threat is detected, such as a person that is not identified by the
AI EM system or someone carrying a weapon, such as a gun or
knife.
[0143] An exemplary robot 110, such as the aerial robot 111, is
operable to return to a docking station 140 wherein the robot is
operable to monitor an area with the camera 112 and microphone 117
and recharge. As shown, aerial robot 111' is docked to the docking
station 140 and is being charged, wherein a rechargeable battery
115 is receiving electrical power. This charging electrical power
is operable to come from the dwelling, or from a renewable power
source 150, such as a solar panel 152 as shown.
[0144] An AI EM system 100 includes or is operable to interface
with a storage container 70 to lock and unlock said storage
container for delivery and safe storage of items therein. A storage
container 70, including a mailbox 71, collectively referred to
herein as a storage container, further includes a lock 72 and a
wireless signal transceiver 78 for receiving a wireless signal from
the wireless communication device 42 of the AI EM device 10. An
exemplary storage container includes a plurality of compartments
that include separate locks 72, 72' for separate closures 79, 79'
and features for retaining items therein, such as a heating device
80 or refrigeration device 86. As shown, a first compartment 74
includes a heating device 80 and a second compartment 76, separated
from the first compartment by a divider 75, has a refrigeration
device 86. Grocery items that need to be refrigerated are delivered
into the refrigerated compartment and in cold climates, medications
and other items are stored in the heated compartment to prevent
freezing.
[0145] An AI EM system 100, as shown in FIG. 1, includes a number
of control interfaces, such as the AI EM device 10, a mobile
electronic device 60, such as a mobile phone, a smart wearable
device, an electronic wearable device, tablet computer, or a
control panel 210, which is configured within the dwelling 91 or
building 93. The control interfaces are operable to set up specific
routines or directions for the system after receiving input (e.g.,
from a user device). The routines or directions include setting a
start and end time for a particular surveillance protocol including
surveillance flight paths of aerial robots, for example. The AI EM
device is configured to receive a selection of a start time of 10
PM and an end time of 8:00 AM for aerial robots fly surveillance
flight paths or routes about the building from the user device. In
one embodiment, the AI EM device, or a computing device in network
communication with the AI EM device or platform, instructs a robot
such as a drone or a land robot to create a defined patrol path,
such as a flight path or a land path. In one embodiment, these
paths are defined and implemented using the Global Positioning
System (GPS). Alternatively, these paths are defined and
implemented using any method of geolocation known in the art or
described herein, such as geofencing. In one embodiment, a robot or
drone is operable to survey a designated area using GPS or any
other method of geolocation in the art to generate patrol paths
such as flight paths or land paths for other robots or drones. By
way of example and not limitation, an aerial robot is operable to
instruct a land robot to follow a certain path based on data
collected by the aerial robot, such as images, audio, or video. In
one embodiment, the aerial robot is operable to perform image or
audio recognition or send the images, audio, or video to the
platform or the AI EM device to perform image or audio recognition.
In one embodiment, a robot instructs other robots to follow paths
independent of the robot or simultaneously with the robot.
Programming of patrol paths includes programming periodic
surveillance or triggered surveillance, such as surveillance
triggered by image or audio recognition. The present invention is
operable to use a combination of technology to enable mapping of
areas and implementation of patrol routes. For example, Light
Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) and/or Airborne Laser Swath Mapping
(ALSM) are operable to be used in locations where density prevents
GPS mapping. The present invention also is configured to receive a
selection of drones or robots to follow patrol paths created by a
robot or drone through the platform or the AI EM device of the
present invention.
[0146] The mobile electronic device 60 and or the control panel is
configured to view images taken by the AI EM device 10 and/or a
robot camera 112. Any of these control interfaces include
artificial intelligence and are operable to communicate through the
AI EM device or directly with components of the system, such as the
robots and/or the storage container and/or any other access point,
such as the front door to operate a smart lock to open or lock.
[0147] In one embodiment, an AI EM system 100 is configured to
unlock the lock 72 of the storage container 70, or a compartment
thereof, when a virtual key is verified by the AI EM device 10. As
described herein, a virtual key includes an image that is read by
camera 22 of the AI EM device 10, or an audible virtual key that is
received by the microphone 24 of the AI EM device 10. An image
virtual key 50, includes but is not limited to, a digital image
that is sent by an AI EM system administrator, such as through an
APP or as an attachment in a text message to a third party's mobile
electronic device. As shown in FIG. 8, a user device of
administrator is configured to send a digital photograph of a puppy
to a third party's mobile electronic device 60 which was received
by a wireless communication device 62, such as a wireless signal
transceiver. This image is shown on the display screen 65 to the
camera 22 of the AI EM device 10 to gain access to an access point,
wherein the door-lock 94 of the door to the dwelling is unlocked,
or the lock 72 on the storage container 70 is unlocked, for
example. In addition, the virtual key further includes an audible
key that is played by the mobile device through the speaker 68. The
microphone on the AI EM device is operable to receive the audible
key in order to verify it. In an exemplary embodiment, both an
image virtual key and an audible key are required for verification
before an access point is unlocked. The mobile electronic device 60
further includes a microphone 64 for providing verbal input that is
delivered to the AI EM system.
[0148] One feature of AI EM system 100 is that the software
includes programming instructions that, when executed, cause AI EM
device 10 to execute entry management and ecommerce support
functions including the delivery of messages, directives,
instructions, greetings, recordings, and facilitating the
connection of a third party for two-way audio/video
communication.
[0149] A greeting includes, but is not limited to, a contextual
greeting that includes some context to the third party, such as
their name, or the name of an organization they are associated
with. For example, a friend Jan, comes over to water the plants
while an owner is away and the AI EM device system is operable to
provide a greeting to Jan that includes her name. In another
example, a UPS delivery driver is operable to be tracked by the AI
EM device system and a greeting that includes the "UPS" name is
provided when the delivery person moves within a threshold range or
distance of the AI EM device or when they provide their virtual
key. The AI EM system is operable to track an electronic device
having a global positioning system by receiving a location from the
mobile electronic device or by interfacing with a program, such as
an Application software, or App, to receive location information
regarding the electronic device. For example, and not limitation, a
package delivery person includes a transponder or other device that
is used to track their location or the location of their vehicle
and the AI EM system is operable to interface with a program or
database to determine this location.
[0150] In one embodiment, a greeting is contextual for a particular
occasion, such as for holidays or special occasions including
birthdays, anniversaries and the like. An exemplary AI EM system is
operable to offer occasion greeting packages that include a song or
other occasion specific messages for an additional fee to the
administrator.
[0151] In one embodiment, the AI EM system 100 includes a motion
detector 14 of AI EM device 10 that is configured to activate upon
motion and provide a greeting, command, or instructions, whereby
system 100 is operable to activate upon recognition of a paired
mobile device. The paired mobile device includes a stored
identification paired via the approval of an owner/administrator.
The pair mobile device is configured to receive the approval via an
owner/administrator mobile device. The owner/administrator includes
individuals assigned programming rights configured to allow the
owner/administrator to make selections remotely via the AI EM
system.
[0152] Another feature of AI EM system 100 includes, when
activation occurs, the AI EM device 10 is configured to provide a
spontaneous response, or a pre-programmed response in accordance
with the device it detects.
[0153] In yet another embodiment, the AI EM system 100 includes an
AI EM device 10 configured to provide a spontaneous response, or a
pre-programed response in accordance with the image read by camera
22.
[0154] In one embodiment, the AI EM system 100 is operable, when
activated, simultaneously, to send a notification to the user
device of an owner/administrator with an option to engage remotely
in two-way communication, activate a preprogrammed or custom
message, provide a virtual key or activate the recording for a
message, detect a person or a device via camera 22, microphone 24,
motion detector 14, or wireless communication device 42 and provide
an intelligent response to the person or device via speaker 18 or
wireless communication device 42.
[0155] In yet another embodiment, the AI EM system 100 is
configured when a package is scanned by camera 22 of AI EM device
10, to initiate a geofence and/or MDA around an area of AI EM
device 10. A geofence is a monitored area within proximity of an
access point and/or the AI EM device. An MDA, or monitored
designated area, is an area created by AI EM device within the
field of view of camera 22. A geofence and/or MDA proximity
distance from an access point and/or the AI EM device is about 1 m
or more, about 5 m or more, about 10 m or more, about 20 m or more,
about 50 m or more. In one embodiment, when the geofence and/or MDA
of AI EM device 10 is initiated, AI EM device 10 is configured to
utilize motion detector 14, camera 22, microphone 24, or
combinations thereof, for detecting a breach of the geofence area
and/or MDA around AI EM device 10. In select embodiments, when a
breach of the geofence area and/or MDA around AI EM device 10 is
detected, the AI EM system 100 is configured to: alert the owner
via a wireless notification; trigger the EM device to set off an
alarm of the EM device; trigger an external alarm; the like; and/or
or combinations thereof. In select embodiments, when the package is
placed in the geofence area and/or MDA around AI EM device 10, the
AI EM device 10 is operable to receive input to activate and to
monitor the geofence area and/or MDA via motion detector 14, camera
22, microphone 24, or combinations thereof. In other select
embodiments, the AI EM device is operable to receive input to
deactivate the geofence area and/or MDA about the AI EM device 10.
In one embodiment, the input includes, but is not limited to,
scanning of the package or a virtual key, whereby the package is
retrieved. Once scanned, the notification, alarms, or combinations
thereof are deactivated by the scanning of the package or the
virtual key, and a subsequent scan can reactivate the geofence area
and/or MDA around AI EM device 10.
[0156] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that AI device 10 is
configured to learn various inputs.
[0157] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that the software of
the AI device is configured to relate to the occupants of the
building for enabling name recognition by AI EM device 10.
[0158] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that the software of
the AI device is operable to enable AI EM device 10 to establish
contact, record messages, or deliver a message from the person or
persons named.
[0159] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that the AI device is
operable to interface with other AI devices, like other AI EM
devices 10 configured as a part of AI EM system 100.
[0160] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that when AI EM
device 10 is activated by motion, the detection of a paired mobile
device, the presentation of a virtual key, or the
owner/administrator, AI EM device 10 is configured to cause the
programming instructions of the software to activate or turn on AI
EM system 100.
[0161] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that AI device 10 is
operable to cause AI EM device 10 to detect the person and
interpret voice detected by microphone 24 from the person.
[0162] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that the intelligent
response provided by the AI device includes, but is not limited to:
logistics, a greeting, a command, directions, a message, an
inquire, a recording request, an alarm to speaker 18, the like,
and/or combinations thereof
[0163] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that wireless
communication device 42 is configured to establish the identity of
the person or the device once paired. In one embodiment, after
pairing, the AI device is configured to recognize the device and
provide a customized greeting, specific instructions, access, or
actions for the associated AI device 10.
[0164] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that the AI device is
configured to require authentication of an image or mobile device
that is active and unlocked, AI device 10 must be active, or
combinations thereof, prior to providing the customized greeting,
the specific instructions, access, or the actions for the
associated device 10.
[0165] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that the AI device is
operable to recognize the previously paired mobile device and a
virtual key or an identification sequence. In one embodiment, if
there is not a confirmed identification, a third-party
authentication is sought which is an embedded code within the
virtual key, or an audible or verbal response code including, but
not limited to, a word or words, a sentence, a number or numbers,
sounds, or letters.
[0166] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that the virtual key
utilized includes, but is not limited to, a humanly created mark,
drawing, written sequence of numbers, letters, abstract sketch, or
picture.
[0167] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that wireless
communication device 42 of AI EM device 10 is operable for
exchanging data between AI EM device 10 and fixed and mobile
devices over short distances using wireless communications,
including, but not limited to, Wi-Fi or UHF radio waves in the
industrial, scientific and medical radio bands (e.g., from 2.402
GHz to 2.480 GHz), and building personal area networks (PANs), also
known as Bluetooth.RTM. (Bluetooth trademark owned by Bluetooth
SIG, Inc. of Kirkland, Wash.).
[0168] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that AI EM system 100
is operable to notify designated security personnel by sending a
notification to the user device of the security personnel.
[0169] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that AI EM device 10
is operable to work on a networkable platform with networked
software accessible and interactive with any other devices running
the networked software and participating on the networkable
platform. In one embodiment, the networkable platform is configured
for use by a variety of members including owners, service
personnel, property management, real estate professionals, short
term rentals, hotels, employees, the like, etc. In one embodiment,
the networkable platform is operable to provide access and
logistics to additional industries and uses.
[0170] In one embodiment, the AI EM device 10 is operable to scan a
code, an image, or any other data or symbol which is operable to
grant access to a property and retrieve a profile associated with
the device or account associated with the code, image, or the other
data or symbol operable to grant access to the property. The AI EM
device 10 is then operable to send one or more command and control
messages to one or more of a plurality of IoT devices or other
devices connected to the AI EM device 10 over a network or via
one-way or two-way wireless or wired communication. For example, a
profile includes settings for one or more thermostats, one or more
smart locks, one or more lighting devices, one or more smart window
devices, one or more media devices, and/or one or more smart
sockets. The AI EM device is operable to control these devices
directly through a wireless connection between the AI EM device and
the devices or through a platform, with the AI EM device and the
devices being connected to a network such as a wireless network
(e.g., WI-FI, cellular, etc.). All references to control of other
devices through the AI EM device described herein are understood to
encompass direct control or control of other devices through a
platform. The software platform associated with the AI EM device is
operable to store account or profile information for a plurality of
users. In one embodiment, a hierarchy of profiles or accounts
exists, wherein higher ranked accounts (e.g., parent or
administrator accounts) are operable to set and overrule settings
for lower ranked accounts (e.g., child, guest, or service people
accounts). Overruling settings includes manually overruling
settings through the platform based on input (e.g. provided via a
user device). The overruling settings are associated with the lower
ranked account or overruling implemented settings in a property or
house upon the EM device allowing a user device associated with a
higher ranked profile to enter a home. In one embodiment,
compromise settings exist between two accounts of the same
hierarchical level. For example, a compromise setting includes the
thermostat settings of a first account overruling the thermostat
settings of a second account but the lighting settings of the
second account overruling the lighting settings of the first
account. Profiles are customizable such that there are different
settings for different times of the year, different days of the
week, and different times of day.
[0171] In one example, the AI EM device 10 receives an image from a
device associated with the profile, and the AI EM device 10 sends a
command to a smart thermostat to set a temperature of one or more
rooms or floors to a certain setting. These temperature settings
are operable to be set through a software application connected to
the AI EM device 10 or the software platform of the present
invention. In one embodiment, there is a hierarchy of profiles,
such that settings of an adult account overrule settings of a child
account. For example, a child account includes a thermostat setting
of 75 degrees for a living room, and an adult account includes a
thermostat setting of 72 degrees for the living room. If the child
account is granted access by the AI EM device 10, the AI EM device
10 sends a command to the thermostat for the living room to set the
temperature to 75 degrees. Upon the adult account being granted by
the AI EM device 10, the AI EM device 10 commands the thermostat to
adjust the temperature in the living room to 72 degrees.
Conversely, if the adult account is granted access first by the AI
EM device, the AI EM device sends a command to the thermostat to
adjust the temperature of the living room to 72 degrees. Upon the
child account being granted access by the AI EM device after the
adult account has already been granted access, the AI EM device
does not send a command to the thermostat to adjust the temperature
of the living room. In another example, only certain thermostats
are commanded to adjust the temperature of certain rooms or floors.
An adult account granted access to the property only causes
thermostats on the first floor to be adjusted as to a predetermined
settings since the bedroom of the adult is on the first floor.
Conversely, a child account granted access by the AI EM device
after an adult account is granted access does not cause the
settings of any network devices or IoT devices to change since the
adult account has a higher priority than the child account.
[0172] In another embodiment, a child account is granted access to
certain rooms or certain areas in a property via unlocking of smart
lock IoT devices for these rooms or areas when the AI EM device
grants access to a child account. The child account is permitted to
access a study via unlocking of a smart lock associated with the
study but a smart lock associated with a playroom is not unlocked
in one embodiment. Alternatively, thermostat or lighting IoT
devices are utilized to incentivize or disincentivize certain
behavior, with a thermostat in a study being set to a warmer
temperature in winter months than a thermostat in a play room upon
the child account being granted access by the AI EM device.
[0173] Additionally, network connected or IoT lighting devices are
operable to be controlled based on the AI EM device granting
property access a certain account. For example, the AI EM device is
operable to grant access to a guest account associated with a
service technician such as a plumber and turn on lighting
associated with the area the plumber will be working (such as a
bathroom or a kitchen) and lighting on a path from the entryway to
the area where the plumber will be working. In another embodiment,
these lighting devices are operable to include settings associated
with a particular account or profile. In one embodiment, an adult
profile includes a brightness setting for one or more lighting
devices, with the AI EM device operable to overrule or not
implement settings associated with a child profile based on the
adult profile settings. Lighting devices are also operable to be
utilized to incentivize or disincentivize certain behavior, with
lighting in a study being set to automatically be turned on for
weeknights after school hours for a child account while lighting in
a playroom is not automatically turned on for a child account
during these time periods.
[0174] Smart window devices such as smart curtains or smart blinds
are also operable to be controlled autonomously based on profile
settings. In one example, smart curtains are automatically opened
upon a maid account being granted access to a property by the AI EM
device.
[0175] In another embodiment, profile settings also control media
devices such as audio, video, and/or gaming devices. By way of
example, an audio device connected to the AI EM device is operable
to play a different audio track or playlist associated with a
profile upon the user device associated with that profile being
granted access by the AI EM device.
[0176] Smart sockets are also operable to be connected to the AI EM
device platform. Any electrical device is operable to be plugged
into a smart socket, with the AI EM device being operable to cause
the smart socket to be powered on or off based on settings
associated with a profile upon the user associated with that
profile being granted access by the AI EM device. For example, a
stove is powered on when the person who typically cooks dinner is
granted access by the EM device. In another example, a laptop
computer is provided power when the owner of that computer is
granted access via the EM device.
[0177] IoT or network devices include at least one alarm system
associated with the access point in one embodiment, with the alarm
system operable to be automatically deactivated upon the EM device
receiving a command to unlock the access point. The EM device is
preferably in wireless communication with at least one alarm system
associated with the access point, and wherein, upon receiving a
command to unlock the access point, the facial recognition module
identifies any authorized individuals within a predetermined
distance of the access point, and the at least one alarm system is
automatically disactivated if any authorized individuals are
detected.
[0178] In one embodiment, settings for any network device or IoT
device are operable to be overruled in real-time via an interface
of a mobile device by an administrator or parent account.
[0179] In another embodiment, wearables or sensor data is operable
to be uploaded to the platform, and IoT devices are operable to be
automatically adjusted based on this data. For example, body
temperature data is operable to be sent to the platform and
thermostat temperature or the temperature of a cooling or heating
device, such as a cooling or heating mattress pad, mattress, or
piece of furniture such as a chair is operable to be adjusted based
on the wearable data in real time or near real time. Additionally,
or alternatively, the AI EM device is operable to provide wearable
data and other data about settings and history of settings for IoT
or network devices to an account associated with the platform, such
as a caregiver or nurse account. This enables a caregiver or nurse
to better care for people in the property, and in one embodiment
the caregiver or nurse account is operable to overrule settings on
the fly for the benefit of the health of people within the
house.
[0180] Wearable data is also useful for granting access to certain
devices or areas within a house. For example, the system (e.g., via
an EM app) is operable to verify a child exercised for a
predetermined period of time using wearable data (e.g., steps,
heart rate, etc.). The system (e.g., via the EM app) is operable to
grant access to a device (e.g., gaming console) or a room of a
house (e.g., playroom).
[0181] In one embodiment, a mobile device associated with a profile
remains in network communication with the platform or the AI EM
device while the mobile device is within the house or property
associated with the AI EM device. In one embodiment, a geofence is
created around the house or the property (including the boundaries
of the property), and the platform or AI EM device determines when
the mobile device and/or a smart electronic device leaves the
geofence and automatically locks the access point and turns off or
adjusts settings associated with one or more IoT devices or network
devices. In another embodiment, an application on the mobile device
and/or the smart electronic device is operable to determine a
geolocation of the mobile device and/or the smart electronic device
and transmit the geolocation of the mobile device and/or smart
electronic device to the platform, with the platform being operable
to automatically lock the access point and turn off or adjust
settings associated with one or more IoT devices or network devices
upon the mobile device and/or smart electronic device moving a
certain distance away from the AI EM device. Location data is
created in the present invention using one or more hardware and/or
software components. By way of example and not limitation,
geolocation data is created using the Global Positioning System
(GPS), low energy BLUETOOTH based systems such as beacons, wireless
networks such as WIFI, Radio Frequency (RF) including RF
Identification (RFID), Near Field Communication (NFC), magnetic
positioning, and/or cellular triangulation. By way of example,
location data is determined via an Internet Protocol (IP) address
of a device connected to a wireless network. A wireless router is
also operable to determine identities of devices connected to the
wireless network through the router, and thus is operable to
determine the locations of these devices through their presence in
the connection range of the wireless router.
[0182] Geofence and geolocation technology is also operable to be
used to determine when child accounts or guest accounts have left a
house or property. In one embodiment, an alert is sent to a user
device corresponding to a parent account or administrator account
upon a detection by the platform that a child account or guest
account has left the property or house.
[0183] In select embodiments of AI EM system 100, a transponder
device is included. The transponder device is configured to utilize
a global positioning system or a wireless communication to identify
a mobile device and begin to transmit a signal for easy
identification and detection. In select embodiments, the
transponder device is attached to a stationary object, a door, a
room, a building box or a storage container. In one embodiment,
upon AI EM device 10 detecting the transponder device, the
programming instructions of the software are configured to: send
out an audible noise, illuminate, provide mapping instructions or
directions to the mobile device to provide guidance in locating a
specific location of the stationary object, door, room, building
box, or the storage container via the speaker; illuminate lights on
the EM device; provide a mapping direction on the device including:
an exact location; a location inside a building, a building without
a geo address, a container, a storage unit; the like; and/or
combinations thereof. As such, another feature of AI EM system 100
is that the transponder device is configured to take over where a
global positioning system ends to guide the person or the device to
a specific location inside a geofence or outside a geofence.
Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that AI EM device 10 is
operable to utilize the global positioning system, Wi-Fi,
radiofrequency (RF), Bluetooth.RTM., or another wireless
communication to identify a mobile device previously paired and
initiate actions including messages, access, logistics to guide the
person or the device to the specific location such that the geo
position of AI EM device 10 activates various actions. Another
feature of AI EM system 100 is that when the transponder device is
activated and detects the person or the device within a set range,
the transponder device is operable to emit a signal, a sound, a
light, or input to AI EM device 10 configured to guide and direct
the person or the device to the specific location.
[0184] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that camera 22 is
operable to read a virtual key from the person or the device, and
upon reading the virtual key, AI EM device 10 is configured to
unlock an access point, provide a greeting, instructions or
logistics, record a message, or establish contact with the
individual requested. In select embodiments, the virtual key
includes, but is not limited to, a humanly created image including,
but not limited to: a humanly created photo; a humanly created
picture; a humanly created drawing; a humanly created mark; a
humanly created number or numbers; a humanly created letter or
letters; a humanly created word or words; the like; and/or
combinations thereof.
[0185] In select embodiments of AI EM system 100, the access point
is a delivery storage container or mailbox. In these embodiments,
AI EM device 10 is operable to lock and unlock the delivery storage
container or mailbox. In select embodiments, the delivery storage
container or mailbox include a refrigerated compartment on an
inside of the delivery storage container or mailbox. The
refrigerated compartment is configured for food or other
refrigerated items. In select embodiments, the refrigerated
compartment is a first portion of the inside of the delivery
storage container, and a second portion of the inside of the
delivery storage container is configured for parcels. In other
select embodiments, the refrigerated compartment is the entire
inside of the delivery storage container. Yet in other select
embodiments, the refrigerated compartment is the entire inside of a
first delivery storage container and a second delivery storage
container is configured for parcels. In other select embodiments,
the delivery storage container or mailbox includes a warmer on the
inside of the delivery storage container or mailbox. In one
embodiment, the warmer is configured to warm the inside of the
delivery storage container or mailbox. In one embodiment, a feature
of AI EM system 100 is that system 100 is configured to control
delivery storage container or mailbox the ability to select warmer,
refrigerated, parcel, or a combination thereof per section of the
delivery storage container or mailbox. In select embodiments, the
delivery storage container or mailbox is positioned just inside a
door of a home and AI EM system 100 is configured to unlock and
lock the door of the home for deliveries to the delivery storage
container or mailbox. In one embodiment, the position of the
delivery storage container or mailbox is configured to prevent the
need for deliveries to be walked through the house to the kitchen.
A feature of the delivery storage container or mailbox is the
inclusion of an ultraviolet light on an inside. The ultraviolet
light is configured for sanitizing the inside of the delivery
storage container or mailbox including sanitizing any parcels
placed in the inside of the delivery storage container or mailbox.
In select embodiments, the delivery storage container or mailbox
includes AI EM device 10 on an outside of the delivery storage
container or mailbox. In other select embodiments, the delivery
storage container or mailbox includes an alarm attached to the
delivery storage container or mailbox configured for security. In
other select embodiments, the delivery storage container or mailbox
includes lighting attached to the delivery storage container or
mailbox configured for illuminating the delivery storage container
or mailbox and area around the delivery storage container or
mailbox. In other select embodiments, the delivery storage
container or mailbox includes a power source which includes, but is
not limited to: a wired power source; a battery-operated power
source; a solar power source; the like; and/or a combination
thereof. In other select embodiments, the delivery storage
container or mailbox includes a warmer configured to heat the
inside of the delivery storage container or mailbox. In other
select embodiments, the delivery storage container or mailbox
includes a wireless connection configured to control the delivery
storage device or mailbox via a mobile device or a personal
computer, including being configured to control the locking and
unlocking of the delivery storage container or mailbox, controlling
the temperature inside of the delivery storage container or mailbox
via the warmer or the refrigerated compartment, the ultraviolet
light inside of the delivery storage container or mailbox, or
combinations thereof
[0186] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that camera 22 is
operable to read a virtual key from the person or the device, and
upon reading the virtual key, AI EM device 10 is configured to
activate a drone to retrieve deliveries from a specific
location.
[0187] In yet another embodiment, the AI EM system 100 is operable
to create and analyze data relating to delivery services and supply
chain management. In this embodiment, scanning of a code on a
package by the EM device updates a database with information
including time and date of delivery, length of time from when
merchant shipped the good to when the customer received the good,
and other pertinent information for insights on supply chain.
Aggregation and analytics of this data provides for determining
trends in deliveries in certain geographic areas and determining
average delivery times for certain couriers from the time of hand
off to the courier to delivery. For example, the AI EM device is
operable to provide data related to the frequency of use of the AI
EM device for entry, package delivery, or any other function
described herein, the type of deliveries made, the cost of products
delivered, a number of deliveries made by different couriers using
the EM device, a total cost of products delivered using the EM
device, an average cost of products delivered using the EM device,
and/or any other statistic operable to be determined from a label
of a package or through image or audio analysis. In one example,
the platform is operable to aggregate this data across multiple AI
EM devices for certain locations, such as neighborhoods, zip codes,
cities, states, countries, etc.
[0188] This information is useful for providing analytics about
which couriers are active in a certain area, which merchants are
shipping packages in a certain area, and even granular analytics
relating to individual delivery drivers, routes, and supply chain.
Potential consumers of this information include couriers to
determine courier competitor activity by date, time, and geographic
area, and merchants to determine merchant competitor activity by
date, time, and geographic area. For example, a clothing merchant
is interested in activity of a competitor in a certain geographic
area and is able to obtain information about this activity through
the aggregation of data by the AI system of the present invention
regarding different courier activity for different merchants in a
geographic area.
[0189] In another embodiment, the AI EM system 100 is operable to
create and store data relating to entries and attempted entries for
the AI EM device, such as an aggregated number of attempts to
access the access point using the EM devices and a number of times
entry has been granted to the access point using the EM device.
[0190] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that AI EM device 10
is configured as a receptionist device for corporate, commercial,
institutional or industrial applications. The receptionist device
is configured to provide custom messages for each occupant and for
receiving and recording custom messages for each user. In one
embodiment, the receptionist device is operable to forward
wirelessly forward information to each occupant, or information is
retrieved from AI EM device 10 by displaying a virtual key assigned
to each occupant. Another feature of the receptionist device is
that AI EM system 100 includes a plurality of AI EM devices 10
configured as the receptionist device for corporate, commercial,
institutional or industrial applications. In one embodiment, each
of the plurality of AI EM devices 10 is operable to interact and
communicate with each other. In one embodiment, the plurality of AI
EM devices 10 is operable to relay messages to the occupant.
[0191] Another feature of AI EM system 100 is that microphone 24 is
operable to identify an audible key from the person or the device.
Upon identifying the audible key via microphone 24, AI EM device 10
is configured to unlock an access point or provide a greeting,
information or logistics. In select embodiments, the audible key
includes, but is not limited to, a word, words, a sentence, a
number, a sound or sounds, wherein microphone 24 is configured to
match the audible key with the person or device. In select
embodiments, the AI device is configured to assign audible keys to
a variety of users, whereby the AI device is further configured to
provide access or information to each of the variety of users via a
user device. In other select embodiments, the AI device is
configured to maintain a record of each of the variety of users.
Yet in other select embodiments, the AI device is configured to
record audible messages.
[0192] In another aspect, the instant disclosure embraces AI EM
system 100 with a plurality of AI EM devices 10. Each of the
plurality of AI EM devices 10 is the disclosed AI EM device 10 in
any of the various embodiments and/or combination of embodiments
shown and/or described herein. As such, in general, each of the AI
EM devices 10 is configured for use with an AI device in
communication with the EM device 10 including a processor with a
non-transitory computer readable storage medium comprising software
having program instructions configured for providing artificial
intelligence to the AI EM device 10. A network platform in
communication with each of the plurality of AI EM devices 10 is
included. The network platform is configured to allow each of the
plurality of AI EM devices 10 to communication with each other.
[0193] In select embodiments of AI EM system 100 with a plurality
of AI EM devices 10, the plurality of AI EM devices 10 are
installed in a neighborhood. In one embodiment, each of the
plurality of AI EM devices 10 are configured with the ability to
communicate if a burglary occurs in any other house or activate and
pan the streets to record all traffic activity.
[0194] As shown in FIG. 1, AI EM device 10 of AI EM system 100 is
configured as a doorbell device 10. The doorbell device 10 is
operable to be positioned on or proximate to a door, and the system
includes a lock on the door. The doorbell device 10 includes a
computing device comprising a computer processor, such as a
microcontroller. The microcontroller is operatively connected to
camera 22 and the lock on the door via a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.RTM.
(Bluetooth trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. of Kirkland,
Wash.) signal. When camera 22 scans and processes a preprogrammed
bar code, image, numbers or pictures, the microcontroller of the
doorbell device 10 sends a signal unlocking the door lock. Also,
camera 22 processes a preprogrammed bar code, image, numbers or
pictures, a signal is received from the cloud server or computer
processor after authentication causing a locking device to open or
access to be gained. In one embodiment, the doorbell device 10
includes a card reader adapted for electronically reading
identification cards, credit cards, and the like. The
microcontroller is operable to comprise a computer processor and a
non-transitory computer readable storage medium comprising software
having programming instructions that, when executed, cause the
microcontroller to carry out the above-described steps. According
to an embodiment of the disclosure, the software is operable to for
use as an application on a mobile smart phone and/or a smart
wearable device. The doorbell device 10 is operable to include and
interface with one or more AI devices.
[0195] According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the
system comprises the AI EM device 10 or doorbell device 10 or an
independent scanner located near or secured to a door, or in
proximity to or secured to a lock box or other storage apparatus.
The lock box or other storage apparatus is operable to contain
letters, packages, or other deliveries. The lock box is configured
to be located near an entry point, built into a residential or
commercial structure, located in a free-standing structure such as
a mailbox or decorative column, in the ground or other places
within the range of a Wi-Fi/Bluetooth.RTM. (trademark owned by
Bluetooth SIG, Inc. of Kirkland, Wash.) signal. The independent
scanner is configured for wireless or wired capabilities. The
entire system is configured to be wired, wireless and/or battery
operated. A warning signal is delivered to an administrator(s) when
any battery in the system becomes weak.
[0196] The independent scanner is capable of reading bar codes,
images, numbers, and pictures. Upon reading and processing a
preprogrammed bar code, image(s), numbers or pictures, a lock on
the door, lock box or other storage apparatus is unlocked. Also,
upon reading and processing of preprogrammed bar code, image(s),
numbers or pictures, the present invention is configured to audibly
deliver an appointed message or a general message or to deliver the
appointed message or general message via a text to a mobile phone
or an e-mail.
[0197] The independent scanner is capable of voice recognition. In
one embodiment, the independent scanner includes numbered buttons
for additional authentication or to route information or
notification to the appropriate user device. The independent
scanner is configured to be positioned at an entry point or in
proximity of a lock box, storage facility or compartment. In
another embodiment, the scanner comprises a storage or lockbox
container with a built-in scanner either wired, wireless or battery
operated.
[0198] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the system
includes a card reader capable of reading identification cards,
credit cards, and the like. In one embodiment, the card reader is
incorporated in the AI EM device 10, or in the independent
scanner.
[0199] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the system
includes a scanner/reader incorporated in another device connected
to a storage container, box, storage facility or the like.
[0200] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the system
includes a secure storage container located on a property for the
purpose of receiving packages and deliveries. The container
includes an automatic locking and unlocking mechanism triggered
directly by the scanner remotely via wireless technology or via a
signal from a computer or cloud server. The storage container is
operable to be built into a structure, such as a house, located
inside a column or other decorative structure, or is free standing.
In one embodiment, the storage container or lock box is equipped
with a scanner.
[0201] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the system
includes a computer processor and a non-transitory computer
readable storage medium comprising software having programming
instructions that, when executed, cause a computer processor to
carry out various steps described herein. According to an
embodiment of the disclosure, the software is adapted for use as an
application on a mobile smart phone.
[0202] The software is configured to create a virtual key based on
input (e.g. from a user device). The virtual key includes a bar
code, a graphic image such as a photograph, and/or an alphanumeric
code comprised of letters and/or numbers. In a preferred
embodiment, the virtual key comprises a graphic image and an
underlying alphanumeric code, and the scanner is adapted to read
graphic images and alphanumeric characters. If weather or other
issues prevent the scanner from being able to read the graphic
image, the scanner is operable to read the alphanumeric code. In
another embodiment, the virtual key comprises a graphic image and
an underlying code that is operable to be used for authentication
of the image, and the scanner is adapted to read graphic images and
bar codes. If weather or other issues prevent the scanner from
being able to read the graphic image, the scanner is operable to
read the alphanumeric code. When the scanner reads the virtual key,
it initiates one or more actions, such as unlocking an associated
lock to allow access to a secured location or container, or
transfer data to a computer processor or a cloud server to
authenticate the key or perform the functions enabling access.
[0203] The scanner is configured to wirelessly transmit
notifications to the appropriate user device enabling a remote
signature receipt. The software application is capable of voice
recognition. The software is operable to create bar codes, images,
and pictures and is further operable to forward them, such as by
text or e-mail, to allow access to authorized visitors, deliveries,
service personnel, and the like.
[0204] The software application is operable to deliver a specific
message for the specific bar code, image, picture and/or number(s)
to input. The software enables remote programming of the scanner,
lockbox, storage etc.
[0205] The software application enables remote two-way
communication via wireless mobile devices. The software application
coordinates the actions of all features of the system. The software
application is operable to receive data from a plurality of mobile
devise or fixed devices via Internet, Wi-Fi, or other wireless or
wired means.
[0206] The software enables the programmer to create a virtual key,
which includes, but is not limited to, a unique barcode, character,
picture, letter(s) and/or number(s). A corresponding virtual key is
sent to designated recipient(s), such as delivery or service
personnel. When scanned, access is gained, or a message is
delivered from the system. The software allows access and messages
to expire as programmed in accordance with each unique barcode,
character, picture, letter(s) and/or number(s).
[0207] Each virtual key is operable to be programmed to have a
predetermined limited life span. Upon creating a virtual key, the
AI EM system is further operable to set a predetermined data and
time at which the virtual key will expire and no longer provide
access based on a selection (e.g., from a user device).
[0208] The software is configured to require a driver's license
scan or card reader for the purposes of verifying entry. The
software is operable to time stamp every activation and document
identity when desired. The software allows notifications to be sent
to one or more mobile devices.
[0209] The software enables the person notified wirelessly to
forward a unique barcode, character, picture, letter(s), and/or
number(s), etc. to one or more recipients to provide access or
messages.
[0210] The software is operable to send a delivery confirmation to
a user device of a sender, the delivery service and/or others
involved. The software allows owners to change access according to
need for residents or guests, thereby eliminating the need to
change locks.
[0211] The software enables preprogrammed messages, directives to
different individuals in accordance with the corresponding scan.
The software enables a remote signature, symbol, and/or image to be
sent from a handheld device to the system, enabling the delivery
person to obtain such through the scanner or doorbell or other
system apparatus.
[0212] The software is operable for a mobile or stationary
transmission of a barcode, image, etc. for the purposes of access,
message and/or information. The software has voice recognition and
artificial intelligence, enabling dissemination to appropriate user
devices and interface with an authorized delivery person or guest.
The artificial intelligence is operable to provide information,
directives, and/or greetings etc.
[0213] The software application enables all devices in the system
to be synchronized in a secure manner by usernames and passwords or
similar identification protocol. In one embodiment, the system is
be referred to as "Virtual Access Locator Technology" (VALT). The
system comprises: [0214] Scanner/Scanner/Doorbell/Light apparatus
mounted in proximity to a door, lockbox, storage, compartment or
other secured location or container. [0215] Scanner includes
illumination, camera, speaker, microphone, alarm, and reader(s) for
cards, mobile phones, and mobile devices. [0216] Controller
comprised of a catalogue of keys for creation of a variety of
selected inputs to be sent or transmitted to the scanner or to an
individual(s) with a remote device or to an email address, or other
address. Each virtual key, bar code, alphanumeric input has the
capability of triggering a corresponding message, directive, etc.
from the system when a scan is performed. [0217] Controller(s)
consisting of programmable devices (computer, laptop, cell phone,
tablet, smart wearable devices, etc.) running a software
application controlling one or more systems of the disclosure.
[0218] Lock box(s), storage, compartments for storage of deliveries
that interface with the controller and the scanner. [0219] Software
with a menu of features to customize the VALT system for uses such
as managing construction sites and deliveries, providing remote
contact by real estate agents with prospective buyers, forwarding
an electronic code / virtual key for access utilizing the scanners,
and serving property owners with a secure method of receiving
deliveries. [0220] A camera for monitoring package deliveries,
recording access and egress, and date stamping time of events.
[0221] Two-way communication for wireless communication between
person initiating scan and appropriate person(s). [0222] Motion
detection for activation of system or the pressing of a button.
[0223] If a delivery package requires a signature and the occupant
is not home, the scan will enable the system to notify the occupant
and to forward an electronic signature to the deliverer as well as
remote access triggered to a selected structure, such as a lockbox,
storage, compartment. [0224] An app enabling networking of AI
devices within or outside the Wi-Fi network.
[0225] An embodiment of the disclosure comprises a general-purpose
computer that has been programmed to perform particular functions
as a specific purpose computer pursuant to the instruction from
program software, such as the software described above.
[0226] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, when a
package, letter or other delivery is anticipated, the source of the
delivery (e.g., an online retailer), identifies itself as a VALT
application member enabling the source to select delivery options
which include the provision of a virtual key to the retailer or
carrier for delivery. The system is operable to designate specific
delivery instructions, access, and/or access points for each
delivery after receiving input (e.g., from a user device). The
virtual key includes, but is not limited to, a predetermined bar
code(s), graphic image(s), and/or other access authorizing input.
When the purchaser receives the access authorizing input, that
input is entered into the VALT system. The delivery source is
further configured to provide the authorizing delivery input
(virtual key) to a delivery person responsible for delivering the
package, letter, or other delivery to the purchaser. Alternatively,
the purchaser provides the virtual key to the delivery person. The
VALT system stores the authorizing input until an anticipated match
is received (e.g., from a delivery person) (bar code, image,
numbers, etc.).
[0227] The VALT system scanner scans the input from the delivery
person to determine if it matches the authorizing input that had
been entered by the purchaser. When a match occurs, the VALT system
is triggered to initiate one or more of the following actions:
[0228] Provide access (such as by unlocking a door or container)
[0229] Deliver a preprogrammed message to the source of the
delivery [0230] Establish contact with appropriate individual(s)
[0231] Date stamp delivery [0232] Notify appropriate individuals of
delivery (such as the intended recipient) [0233] Initiate two-way
communication [0234] Activate camera [0235] Activate motion
detection [0236] Activate the AI device which will then interface
with the VALT system providing instructions, directives, etc.
[0237] In an alternative embodiment of the disclosure, the system
is operable to receive the authorizing input, such as a bar code(s)
or image(s) (e.g., via a user device) and the system is operable to
transmit the authorizing input to an authorized delivery source
device. For example, and not limitation, the system is configured
to create a personalized authorizing input based on input received
(e.g., via a user device from an individual). The individual
provides the personalized authorizing input to an online retailer
at the time of making a purchase from the online retailer.
[0238] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the system is
configured to create barcodes, images, etc. or other authorizing
inputs based on input (e.g., from a user device (e.g., a system
administrator device)) that are sent for the purpose of access:
[0239] Deliveries [0240] Guest [0241] Family [0242] Real Estate
Sales [0243] Service and repair personnel [0244] Property
management [0245] Online real estate rental platforms, such as
Airbnb
[0246] In one embodiment, the EM system is operable to create a
label and transmit the label to a plurality of vendor devices based
on input (e.g., from a user device (e.g., an administrator/owner
user device)) The label is created by using identified numbers or
codes received by the EM system such as credit card number, number
provided by administrator/owner at the time of order, and/or image
selected by the administrator/owner at the time of order.
[0247] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the VALT
system is operable to send a signal to a variety of access points.
One of which includes mail compartments, storage compartments,
entry, or other. Once access is provided, the access information
becomes invalid, or programmed to expire at a designated time.
[0248] The VALT system includes the ability to deliver messages or
information associated with each scan. The system is further
operable for voice recognition and AI (artificial intelligence),
either built in or networked with other external AI devices,
enabling it to conduct inquiries, provide information, and respond
to inquiries.
[0249] The VALT system is connectable to a database for the purpose
of reading drivers' licenses or other Identification cards or
badges. The VALT system date stamps, stores and configures a report
of all activity. The VALT system confirms deliveries, date stamping
each, and provides access to package containers, storing them
safely.
[0250] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the two-way
communication enables remote communication with the device of an
owner/administrator and the device of a person triggering the
scan.
[0251] Locking compartments or storage compartments for the VALT
system are constructed and configured in the structure or located
in proximity to a structure in range of the VALT wireless input,
the cloud server running the application, edge computing network,
and/or a mobile device running the application.
[0252] In select embodiments, the VALT system comprises a scanner
device, such as the AI EM device 10 described above. Upon the
purchase of an item from an online retail seller platform, a
virtual key is created and transmitted to the AI EM device 10 of
the item purchaser. The virtual key includes, but is not limited
to, the specific IP address of the purchaser. The virtual key is
also sent to the designated retailer or delivery service that is to
deliver the item to the purchaser if a VALT membership is
confirmed. Upon delivering the item to the purchaser's location,
the delivery service presents the virtual key, which includes a bar
code that is scanned by the doorbell device. Upon scanning the
virtual key, the VALT scanner AI EM device 10 transmits a signal to
the application server, computer processor or door lock that
unlocks the door 112. The VALT system is operable to program the
virtual key so that it expires after a predetermined number of uses
at the AI EM device 10. For example, the virtual key is configured
to expire after it has been scanned one time by the AI EM device
10. As such, the virtual key cannot be used again. Alternatively,
the virtual key is programmed to activate at a predetermined time
and expire at a predetermined time.
[0253] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the VALT
system is operable to be used in the field of real estate sales.
Real estate agents send access information wirelessly via user
devices in the form of a bar code or image to a potential buyer
visiting a home for sale. The potential buyer inputs the access
information into the system to unlock the door of the home and gain
entrance. The VALT system is further configured to confirm the
identity of the potential buyer via driver's license scan. The
system is operable to monitor access via built in camera(s),
conduct remote tour via interior cameras and monitor exit. The VALT
system is operable be used with online real estate rental
platforms, such as Airbnb.
[0254] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the VALT system is
operable be used to receive service providers at a location, such
as building contractors, sub-contractors, repair men, cleaning
staff and other service personnel doing work at a residence. The
VALT system is operable to create access information and transmit
the access information to user devices corresponding to service
providers. The system is operable to receive the access information
to grant access to the residence.
[0255] Another embodiment of the disclosure comprises a mobile app
that allows for the creation of a virtual key to enable the
transfer of keys for accessing a structure.
[0256] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the VALT
system comprises an AI device and AI EM device 10 having camera 22
that is operable to be used as a scanner and a mobile app that is
operable to be utilized by merchants. The mobile app allows the
transfer of specific barcode or other information. Also, included
in the app is the ability to create virtual keys which are operable
to send to delivery personnel or service people. An unlocking
component is associated with the creation of the virtual keys.
[0257] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the virtual
key expires at a predetermined time selected by the creator of the
virtual key. The virtual key is configured to be securely sent to a
cell phone and/or smart wearable device for access by various
personnel.
[0258] In another embodiment of the disclosure, multiple artificial
intelligence (AI) devices such as robots including aerial robots,
communicate with one another in an established network. This allows
messages to be shared, transmitted, and stored in other AI devices
for both security and information purposes. If a delivery occurs
and the recipient or occupant is not available, the VALT system
communicates with the AI device with a notification that is stored
or sent to another AI device. According to an embodiment of the
disclosure, membership in the network is accepted via programming
of a code, IP address, or some other identifier that is accepted by
another device or devices for shared communication. The information
extends to the merchant who has the ability to send a message to an
AI device regarding delivery, shipping, or order information. The
AI device is further operable to communicate instructions to the
delivery person via the VALT scanner or independently, in addition
to storing important information (e.g., from a delivery or service
person).
[0259] Another embodiment of the disclosure provides a system for
delivering merchandise comprising an online membership platform
that is configured to receive personal data such as name, address,
and credit card data information at the time of creating a
membership via a user device. A virtual key is created in
connection with at least one account corresponding to at least one
member of the platform; the virtual key optionally includes special
instructions for delivery personnel, for example preferred location
for leaving packages at the delivery address. The membership
platform is operable to be accessed at the time of making an online
purchase. For example, an online retailer makes customers aware of
the membership platform and provide a link to the platform when
customers are about to make a purchase from the online retailer.
Returning customers who have already created a membership enter a
password to bring up their existing membership. The system includes
a scanner device that is operable to read bar codes, images, and
alphanumeric symbols. The scanner device is operable to be encoded
with the personal data of a particular user, including a virtual
key corresponding to a user's device. The online retailer delivers
the encoded scanner device to the particular user when a membership
is created on the membership platform that corresponds to the
particular user.
[0260] The scanner device is configured to be positioned proximate
to an access door of the user's home, business or other delivery
location. The scanner device includes adhesive or other attachment
means that allows the scanner device to be securely attached to the
user's home, storage container or other secure location. The
scanner device includes but is not limited to, a speaker,
microphone, a display screen and a camera. Preferably, the display
screen is a touch screen. When a delivery is scanned, confirmation
of receipt of the package is transmitted to the online retailer and
the user device. Upon scanning of the package, the scanner device
reads the virtual key.
[0261] If the membership platform received special delivery
instructions, then the speaker is configured to broadcast audibly
the instructions (such as "place the package on the back porch")
and/or present the text on a touch screen. The system is further
operable to capture audio (e.g., from a delivery driver) via a
microphone. Advantageously, this enables the delivery driver to
communicate with a user via the system when the delivery driver is
having an issue. The online retailer offers an "upgraded" scanner
device that includes means for installing an electronic lock on the
user's access door that is operatively connected to the scanner
device. Upon scanning of the package by the scanner device, the
scanner device reads the virtual key, which triggers the electronic
lock on the access door to unlock for a predetermined amount of
time to allow the delivery driver to place the package inside the
user's home.
[0262] According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the VALT
application is configured to maintain a record of every activation
and access key. A record is maintained of each activation that
includes the virtual key utilized for the activation, the IP
address and authorized user of the mobile device of the individual
and/or entity utilizing the virtual key for access, the duration of
stay, and the date/time of departure and/or termination of the
virtual key.
[0263] According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the VALT
application includes voice recognition technology and the virtual
key comprises an audible recording of a series of numbers, words
and/or sounds, which is operable be created by input received from
an administrator (e.g., via a user device). The voice recognition
technology is operatively connected to the scanner device whereby
the scanner device is adapted to receive and process voice data.
When the scanner device receives and processes the audible sound of
the virtual key one or more actions is initiated, such as unlocking
a door to a structure and/or providing a greeting and/or logistics
information.
[0264] According to another embodiment of the disclosure, access to
the VALT application is protected by biometric recognition of at
least one user. Access to the VALT application is granted by the
system when predetermined biometric data of the at least one user
is authenticated by the system. Authentication is achieved when
scanned fingerprints and/or other physical features of the user are
received by input capture mechanisms (e.g., camera, video lens,
etc.) of the EM device.
[0265] According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the VALT
system includes a secondary power source that enables the system to
continue working in the event of a power outage. The secondary
power source (a) serves as a backup power source, (b) charges a
battery capable of powering the system when electricity is not
available, and/or (c) contains a backup energy/power device capable
of powering the system. In one embodiment, the secondary power
source includes one or more solar (photovoltaic) panels.
[0266] According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the
virtual key is operable to trigger a drone device that retrieves a
package and takes it to a designated storage area. Rather than the
virtual key being used to access a structure, the key activates a
drone device that flies to the delivery area and retrieves the
package when the key is scanned.
[0267] Another embodiment of the disclosure includes a system that
is referred to herein as "Mapping and Locator Technology" (MALT).
The MALT system is an optional or additional feature of the VALT
system. In accordance with the MALT system, a global navigation
satellite system, such as The Global Positioning System (GPS), is
used to interface with multiple devices to initiate access and/or
activate messages or logistics when devices are within a particular
range of distance between each other. The MALT system is configured
to receive the particular range of distance necessary to initiate
access and/or messages or logistics. The range of distance includes
but is not limited to, five feet. Alternatively, in another
embodiment, the range of distance is less than five feet. In yet
another embodiment, the range of distance is greater than five
feet. The GPS detects the geo-location of each device, and when it
is determined that the multiple devices are within the particular
range of distance of each other, then a number of different actions
are initiated, such as granting access to a structure and/or
activate messages and logistics.
[0268] The MALT system, utilizing a standard GPS service, is
operable to establish a relationship between a host device and one
or more mobile devices running the VALT application. The mobile
devices include, but are not limited to, mobile smartphones and
smart wearable devices. The host device comprises a computer
processor and is linked to each mobile device using the IP address
of each mobile device. In one embodiment, the host device is an AI
device. When the mobile device comes within proximity of the host
device, the host device initiates one or more actions, such as
providing access to a structure and/or providing a greeting and/or
logistics information. This feature eliminates the need for optics
and/or near-field communications (NFC). When utilized in delivery
services it enables the carrier to simply arrive and come within
proximity of the host device.
[0269] In another embodiment, the MALT system, utilizing a standard
GPS service, is configured to establish a relationship between a
mobile device and a specific landmark or address. When the mobile
device is within proximity of the specific landmark or address,
access or logistics are activated utilizing. The mobile devices
include, but are not limited to, mobile smartphones or a mobile
device (e.g., carrier's DIAD) which are be utilized for access and
logistics. This feature eliminates the need for optics and/or
near-field communications (NFC). When utilized in delivery
services, it enables the carrier to simply arrive and come within
proximity of the landmark or address.
[0270] The MALT system is configured to interface with devices of
VALT members. Information and logistics are programmed into each
carrier's mobile device and when the carrier's mobile device is
within proximity of a landmark or address, access and directives
are initiated.
[0271] According to a preferred embodiment, the MALT system is
operable to utilize a virtual key for added security. The host
device is the AI EM device 10 described above. The AI EM device 10
is linked to a mobile device using the IP address of the mobile
device. In addition, a virtual key is created and transmitted to
the linked mobile device. When the mobile device comes within
proximity of the AI EM device 10 and the virtual key is read by the
AI EM device 10, the host device initiates one or more actions,
such as unlocking the door to the structure operatively connected
to the AI EM device 10 and/or providing a greeting and/or logistics
information. In order to initiate the action, the linked mobile
device must be within the particular predetermined range of
distance of the AI EM device 10 and the AI EM device 10 must read
the virtual key from the mobile device. This provides an added
layer of security. The virtual key includes, but is not limited to,
a bar code, a graphic image, such as a photograph, and/or an
alphanumeric code comprised of letters and/or numbers. Preferably,
the virtual key comprises a graphic image and an alphanumeric code.
If weather or other issues prevent the AI EM device 10 from being
able to read the graphic image, the AI EM device 10 is operable to
read the alphanumeric code.
[0272] In a method according to a preferred embodiment of the
disclosure, the MALT system is operable to be used in a delivery
process. When delivery of an item, such as package or letter, is
anticipated, a virtual key is created and transmitted, such as by
e-mail or text, to the delivery service responsible for delivering
the item. The virtual key preferably comprises a graphic image and
an underlying alphanumeric code. The virtual key is created by
taking and selecting a photograph and entering a series of
alphanumeric characters. Alternatively, the virtual key is created
via a user device corresponding to a seller of the item to be
delivered, and the seller user device transmits the virtual key to
the user device of a recipient and the user device of the delivery
service responsible for delivering the item. The delivery service
transmits the virtual key to the mobile device of the delivery
person delivering the item. In addition, the delivery person's
mobile device is linked to the recipient's AI EM device 10 via the
IP address of the mobile device. The AI EM device 10 is provided at
the home of the recipient. The AI EM device 10 is operatively
connected to an access point of a structure, such as the front door
of the recipient's home whereby the AI EM device 10 is configured
to lock and unlock the front door. When the delivery person arrives
at the recipient's home, the delivery person presents the virtual
key on his mobile device to the AI EM device 10. When the AI EM
device 10 detects that the delivery person's linked mobile device
is within the required range of distance and reads the virtual key
on the mobile device, the VALT system initiates one or more
actions, such as provide access (such as by unlocking the front
door), provide a preprogrammed message to the delivery person,
contact the recipient or other appropriate individual(s), date
stamp delivery, notify appropriate individuals of delivery (such as
the intended recipient), initiate two-way communication between the
recipient and the delivery person, activate the camera, activate
motion detection, and activate an AI device which interfaces with
the VALT system providing instructions, directives, etc.
[0273] The MALT feature is operable to be activated or canceled via
the VALT application. VALT offers at least two levels of
authentication and convenience: (1) image identification with a
code to prevent the forwarding or transfer of the image, and (2)
code detection via NFC for the purposes of verifying the image
code. The use of GPS makes deliveries interactional and intuitive
by providing immediate access and/or information or directives.
[0274] Mobile electronic devices and GPS provide advantages over
GPS and vehicle location. The VALT application uses GPS to provide
delivery confirmation when the mobile device of the carrier and the
VALT host are in proximity. As shown in FIG. 9, a mobile electronic
device 60 is tracked by the AI EM device system, wherein a location
of a mobile electronic device 102 of a third party 102, such as a
mobile phone or beacon with respect to an access point 90, as
represented by display 15 of the AI EM device system, as an
example. It is to be understood that the tracking is accomplished
without any display output, however the display 15 is provided on
the AI EM device 10, and/or on the third party's mobile electronic
device and/or an administrator's mobile electronic device. The AI
EM device system 100 is operable to provide a contextual greeting
when the third party's mobile electronic device moves within a
threshold distance from the AI EM device 10, such as within about
20 m or less, about 10 m or less, about 5 m or less and any range
between and including the threshold ranges provided. The contextual
greeting includes the name of the person associated with the third
party mobile electronic device or the name of a company that they
are associated with. The AI EM system is operable to provide a
greeting and/or logistic instructions for delivery of a package,
such as "Hi UPS driver, please place the package in the storage
container on the porch." This tracking and display feature is
provided and/or accessed by an administrator on an electronic
device including a mobile electronic device. Furthermore, the
display on the AI EM device is operable to show the location of a
tracked delivery person, as shown. The AI EM system enables a
person to pull up the location of a delivery person before leaving
or entering their home to know when to expect a delivery.
[0275] As shown in FIG. 10, an exemplary storage container 70 has a
first compartment 74 and a second department 76 formed by a divider
75. The first compartment has a heating device 80 and the second
compartment has a refrigeration device 86. Also, the UV lights 73,
73' are configured to produce a disinfecting UV light used to
disinfect packages and contents within the storage container. The
storage container 70 is also configured with a lock, which is an
electronic lock that is unlocked and locked by the AI EM device
system when a virtual key is verified. The storage container also
has a light 84 and a speaker 82. The light is operable to be used
to aid in finding and opening the storage container, when used
after dark and the speaker is operable to be used to emit audible
phrase from the AI EM device system, such as logistic information.
For example, and not limitation, the audible phrase is operable to
direct the delivery person to place a package in a specific
compartment of the storage container. Also, the speaker and light
are further operable to be used as an alarm in the event the
storage container is jostled or moved or in the event that the
storage container is opened without authorized access.
[0276] As shown in FIG. 11, a mobile electronic device 60 is
configured to display a plurality of digital images 66, which
includes, but is not limited to, digital photographs that, in
series, are an image virtual key 50, 50', 50'' configured to be
identified by the camera of the AI EM device and verified for
access to an access point. For example, and not limitation, a user
device is configured and operable to receive a plurality of digital
images or photographs from the EM system as a single file or in
separate files. The EM device is configured to received displayed
virtual key images via the camera of the EM device. The displayed
virtual key images correspond to a sequence. For example, and not
limitation, the sequence includes dog, balloons, cat. The AI EM
system is operable to unlock a lock when a virtual key is verified
by the AI EM device.
[0277] As shown in FIG. 12, an exemplary AI EM system 100 requires
a virtual key to be selected on a display screen 15, from a
plurality of digital images 66, before a lock is unlocked. The AI
EM device 10 includes a display screen 15 that includes, but is not
limited to, a touch screen 17 that is configured to receive a
selection of at one or more digital images for entry. For example,
and not limitation, the AI EM device is configured to receive a
selection of a plurality of digital images to produce a virtual key
and the image virtual key requires each image virtual key 50, 50',
50'' to be selected in a specific sequence, such as balloon, dog,
cat, for example. A plurality of other digital images 66 or
photographs are also displayed on the display screen during the
selection or entry of the virtual key. Again, the AI EM system is
operable to automatically send an image virtual key. The user
device is configured to display the virtual key and to receive a
selection of images corresponding to the virtual key. The AI EM
system is operable to send image virtual keys to a user device when
a user corresponding to the user device is expected to arrive, such
as to a cleaning professional prior to their weekly scheduled
arrival.
[0278] As shown in FIG. 13, an exemplary AI EM system 100 requires
a virtual key to be selected on a display screen 65, of a mobile
electronic device 60, from a plurality of digital images 66, before
an access point is unlocked. The AI EM device 10 is operable to
communicate with the mobile electronic device through a wireless
signal 25, such as a Bluetooth signal and send a plurality of
digital images for the person to select on their own mobile device
to enable entry to an access point. In one embodiment, the
plurality of digital images are configured in a grid and include
one or more images that were sent previously to said user device
via the AI EM system. The user device is operable to receive a
selection of images when approaching the AI EM device 10. The user
device is further operable to receive a selection of a plurality of
digital images to produce a virtual key. The image virtual key
requires each image virtual key 50, 50', 50'' to be selected in a
specific sequence, such as balloon, dog, cat, for example. In
another embodiment, a plurality of other digital images 66 or
photographs are displayed on the display screen 65 during the
selection or entry of the virtual key. Again, a system
administrator device, or the AI EM system is operable to
automatically, send an image virtual key. The user device is
configured to display the virtual key via display screen and to
receive a selection of at least one image corresponding to the
virtual key via a touch screen. The AI EM system is operable to
send image virtual keys to a user device based on when the user
corresponding to a user device is expected to arrive, such as to a
cleaning professional prior to their weekly scheduled arrival.
[0279] In another embodiment, the AI EM device 10 is positioned on
the storage container and includes a speaker and camera configured
to interface with the person to scan a virtual key and provide
access to the storage container and/or another access point. An
exemplary storage container 70 comprises a closure sensor 87 that
detects the position of a storage container closure, such as a lid
or door. In the event the closure is opened without authorization,
the light 84 and/or speaker 82 is activated to produce an alarm.
Also, an exemplary storage container includes accelerometer 88 that
detects motion and when the motion above a motion threshold is
detected, an alarm is activated on the storage container and/or EM
device. An exemplary storage container, in one embodiment, includes
but is not limited to, a global positioning system (GPS) location
device 89 that is used to monitor a location of the storage
container and when the storage container is moved beyond a
perimeter limit or a threshold distance from a location, an alarm
is activated on the storage container and/or EM device. These theft
prevention measures help to ensure that packages delivered into a
storage container and the storage container are not stollen.
[0280] Referring now to FIGS. 14 and 15, an exemplary AI EM system
100, comprises an AI EM device 10 an access point 90, the front
door to the home and 90' a storage container 70, as well as a
plurality of robots 110, aerial robots 111, 111', 111'' and 111'''
that are configured to dock on corresponding docking stations 140,
140', 140'' and 140'''. The docking stations are configured to
provide power to the robot via a charging port 142 and/or
interchangeable batteries 115, 115', 115''. A battery on the robot
115 is charged by the charging port 142 when the robot is docked on
the docking station 140, and/or the battery on the robot is
operable to interchanged with a battery of the docking station. In
one embodiment, the power for the charging of the batteries are
from a power source of the building, such as from a power line 144
that is plugged into or otherwise coupled with the building
electrical power system. In yet another embodiment, the power comes
from a renewable power source, such as a solar panel 152. The power
generated from the solar panel is coupled directly with the docking
station(s) and is configured on or near the docking stations.
[0281] Four of the docking stations are configured proximal to the
corners of the building to provide substantially complete perimeter
monitoring via the camera 112, motion detector 120 and/or
microphone 117 on the robot 110, such as the aerial robot 111.
Also, the docking station 140 includes a camera 145, motion
detector 146, microphone 147 and/or a speaker 148. The docking
station also effectively monitors an area around an access point,
such as around a perimeter of a home or business. The docking
station emits an alarm when motion is detected or when a threat is
detected by the robot or docking station. In the event that the
camera on either the robot or the docking station detects motion
for example, the aerial robots are deployed from the docking
station to investigate more closely by flying to be in closer
proximity to the source of the motion and/or sound. An alert is
provided to the intelligence EM system 100 and images and audio
received by the microphone, of the robot or docking station, are
transferred in real time to the intelligence EM system 100 for an
administrator to review. Also, the access points are operable to be
locked in the event that any motion or sound above a threshold
amount is detected. The robot is operable to act autonomously when
monitoring the perimeter of the building and is operable to
interface with the intelligence EM system 100 only when the
detected sound or movement is determined to be threat. A robot is
configured for surveillance or a property or an area around a
building or access point and includes a camera that is operable to
detect motion and a microphone to detect sound. The robot(s) is
operable to act independently to monitor, record events detected
and/or follow a threat or person that is detected.
[0282] In another embodiment, a robot is programmed with one or
more patrol routes on a predetermined schedule within a property,
with the one or more patrol routes controlled or determined by the
EM device or a software platform to which the EM device is
connected over a network. The software platform preferably includes
at least one server or at least one edge device. Alternatively, the
software platform is a cloud-based platform. The patrol routes are
operable to include random movement across a property, a patrol
around a perimeter of a property, a patrol around a perimeter of a
house, a patrol around the outside of a specific area of a house
such as the front porch or bedrooms, or any combination thereof.
Patrol routes are operable to differ based on the day of the week
or the time of day.
[0283] In one embodiment, the robots include image recognition
technology to assist in providing security for a property.
Alternatively, the platform of the present invention is operable to
provide image recognition technology upon receiving images or
videos from a robot. In one example, the image recognition
technology includes facial recognition technology, whereby certain
people are whitelisted (i.e., allowed on the premises) or
blacklisted (i.e., not allowed on the premises). Upon detection of
a blacklisted person on the premises, the robot is operable to
automatically send a command to the EM device to alert the
authorities, a registered user device associated with the EM
device, or a guest device granted access by the EM device upon
recognition of a blacklisted person. Alternatively, the platform is
operable to receive the image or video, recognize the blacklisted
person, and alert the authorities, a registered user device
associated with the EM device, or a guest device granted access by
the EM device. In one embodiment, recognition of a whitelisted
person causes an alert to be sent to a registered user device
associated with the EM device or a guest device granted access by
the EM device. The EM device is operable to communicate with a
database or web crawler to retrieve information relating to an
unknown person, a blacklisted person, or a whitelisted person based
on facial recognition. In one embodiment, the information includes
an identification of a career or position of the person,
information about a company associated with the person, an age of
the person, an identification of any criminal history, litigation
history of a person, mutual contacts between an owner of the EM
device and the person, or any other information available from a
web search, an online criminal background search, or a social media
search including recent activity, media, posts, reported locations
of the user, etc. In the event that facial recognition is not
possible due to concealment of the user's face, such as via a mask,
a hood, sunglasses, or any other face obscuring article or item,
the robot is operable to automatically send a command to the EM
device to alert a registered user device associated with the EM
device or a guest device granted access by the EM device.
[0284] The EM device is also operable to include a facial
recognition module operable to identify individuals who are
approaching the access point and identify the individuals as
authorized or unauthorized individuals. The EM device is operable
to automatically transmit a lock command to the electronic lock
when an unrecognized or unauthorized individual approaches the
access point. Advantageously, this command is operable to be sent
when the individual is more than a predetermined distance away from
the access point, such as 1 meter away or more than 2 meters away
from the access point, thereby effectively locking an access point
before the unauthorized or unrecognized individual is able to open
the access point. The EM device is operable to automatically send a
command to the at least one secondary camera to zoom in on a face
of at least one unrecognized individual within a predefined
distance of the access point. If the facial recognition module
identifies an unauthorized individual, then the EM device
automatically transmits an alert to at least one registered user
device associated with the access point. The EM device is operable
to activate and/or deactivate the at least one robot, and wherein
activation of the at least one robot causes the at least one robot
to track and follow at least one individual proximate to the access
point.
[0285] In another embodiment, image recognition technology includes
weapon recognition technology providing for recognition of weapons.
Upon recognition of a weapon, such as a firearm, a knife, a
crowbar, a baseball bat, etc., the robot automatically sends a
command to the EM device to alert the authorities, a registered
user device of the EM device, or a guest device granted access by
the EM device. Alternatively, the platform is operable to receive
the image or video, recognize a weapon, and alert the authorities,
a registered user device associated with the EM device, or a guest
device granted access by the EM device. In another embodiment,
image recognition technology provides for recognition of
threatening or damaging actions, such as kicking a door, breaking a
window, throwing an object at a house, shooting a firearm, physical
violence such as hitting another person, or injury or medical
emergencies such as someone falling, fainting, or passing out. Upon
recognition of this action, the robot sends a command to the EM
device to alert the authorities, a registered user device of the EM
device, or a guest device granted access by the EM device upon
recognition of the action. Alternatively, the platform is operable
to receive the image or video, recognize an action, and alert the
authorities, a registered user device associated with the EM
device, or a guest device granted access by the EM device.
Artificial intelligence or machine learning algorithms are utilized
by the platform connected to the EM device in one embodiment to
assist in image recognition.
[0286] In another embodiment, the robots or the platform include
audio recognition technology which is operable to identify and
classify certain sounds. Examples of recognizable sounds include a
gunshot, glass breaking, screaming or yelling, or any other sound
that signifies a threat, a potential threat, violence, or physical
injury. Upon recognition of a recognizable sound, the robot sends a
command to the EM device to alert the authorities, a registered
user device of the EM device, or a guest device granted access by
the EM device upon recognition of the action. Alternatively, the
platform is operable to receive the audio, recognize the
recognizable sound, and alert the authorities, a registered user
device associated with the EM device, or a guest device granted
access by the EM device. Artificial intelligence or machine
learning algorithms are utilized by the platform connected to the
EM device in one embodiment to assist in audio recognition.
[0287] A docking station 140 is configured on the ground or on
another structure 170 detached from the building 93, such as a
dwelling 91, having an access point 90, such as a door 92. This
structure 170 further includes an access point 90', such as a door
92' and for example, and not limitation, be a shed or other
dwelling or building. In one embodiment, the structure is specific
for docking and be configured proximal to the ground for
servicing.
[0288] Referring now to FIGS. 16, 17 and 18, an exemplary docking
station 140 is configured under the eave 200 of a home, or under
the gutter 202 for protection from the elements. The docking
station includes a docking station light 149, which is operable to
act as an exterior light or flood light. As shown in FIG. 16, the
aerial robot 111 is configured on top of the docking station 140,
between the docking station and the eave 200 and gutter 202. The
docking station light 149 is on to provide illumination which aids
in the aerial robot surveilling an area around the home. A second
aerial robot 111' is flying above the roof 204 of the home. The
details of the docking station 140 are shown in the docking station
in the circle, for clarity. The docking station includes, but is
not limited to, any of the components as describe and shown in FIG.
15. As shown in FIG. 17, the aerial robot 111 is configured on
under the docking station 140 and under a docking cover, a dome
shaped cover to protect the aerial robot from the elements. The
docking cover is transparent to enable surveillance through the
cover by the motion detector 120 and/or camera 112 of the aerial
robot. A docking extension 141 is coupled with the docking station
140 to retain the aerial robot 111 to the docking station. Again,
the docking station includes, but is not limited to, any of the
components as describe and shown in FIG. 15. As shown in FIG. 17
the aerial robot is coupled with a docking station 140 that is also
a light fixture 160, such a flood light for the home. The aerial
robot is small and inconspicuous with respect to the light fixture.
As shown in FIG. 18, the aerial robot 111 is docked horizontally
via the docking extension 141 that is coupled with the docking
station 140. The docking extension is operable to extend from the
top, bottom or side of the aerial robot. The docking extension or
receiver on the docking station for the docking extension includes
a latch or pin or other mechanical retaining mechanism to keep the
aerial robot securely docked.
[0289] A robot is operable to be activated to begin surveillance by
the system, or by a separate mobile device. For example, and not
limitation, the robot(s) are operable to be activated to monitor an
area around a home when occupants leave. A robot is operable to
interface with any smart-home system, a system configured to lock
and unlock doors for access to a building, such as a home and place
of business. A smart-home system includes, but is not limited to,
an AI EM system as described herein. A robot is operable to be
controlled by the smart-home system, wherein they receive
instructions through a wired or wireless connection with the
smart-home system to perform a function. A robot includes some
autonomous functions, such as surveillance, monitoring and
capturing images and sound recordings. Also, a robot is operable to
act independently to follow a threat to record images of said
threat and/or vehicle.
[0290] In one embodiment, the EM device instructs one or more
robots to patrol the premises for a vehicle and capture images of a
vehicle, including a license plate, if a person is detected by the
EM device or by another device in network communication with the EM
device or another device that transmits an alert to the EM device
regarding detection of a person on the premises. Alternatively,
other devices such as cameras are instructed by the EM device to
capture images or videos of a vehicle. These instructions include
movement or pivoting of a camera or a camera zooming in or out in
one embodiment. This functionality is useful for cataloging a list
of visitors to a property or premises, and in one embodiment the
platform or the EM device creates a searchable database of visitors
who have visited a property along with a time of entry to the
property, a time of exit from the property, a duration of time
spent on the property, and an identification of guests with a
person during their visit. If a person is not detected damaging
property on camera, but property damage occurs the day a person
visited the premises, this information assists a resident and the
authorities in obtaining more information about potential
suspects.
[0291] One or a plurality of the robots and in particular aerial
robots is operable to monitor and track a threat, such as an
unauthorized person on or around an access point. The robot or
robots are deployed from a docking station and follow the threat
for closer surveillance. The robot(s) 110 is operable to activate
the robot light 119 to deter the threat. The light is operable to
flash and in one embodiment, is a bright light, such as more than
500 lumen or more than 1,000 lumen. The light is operable to flash
rapidly such as about 1 hertz or more, or about 2 hertz or more,
about 5 hertz and any range between and including the cycles per
second provided. This bright rapidly flashing light effectively
deters the threat. Also, the robot or robots are operable to emit
an alarm by the robot speaker 116 and this alarm is operable to be
directed at the threat via the directional speaker capability as
described herein. By way of example and not limitation, the EM
system is configured to receive input to activate the alarm or
siren, such as the EM system is notified of activity detected by
the robot. The EM system is configured to send a picture or video
of an intruder that is actively moving about the building to a user
device. The EM system is configured to receive a selection to
activate the alarm, and or deploy the robots to take action to
deter the intruder via the user device. The alarm or siren is
operable to generate a sound at about 75 decibels or more, about
100 decibels or more, about 120 decibels or more and any range
between and including the sound levels provide. The docking
stations are operable be activated when a threat is detected and
emit a bright light and also an alarm having the lumens and decibel
levels, respectively, or even higher lumens and decibels. A first
robot detects a threat and the robot is operable to communicate
with one or more additional robots to enable additional robots to
find the threat, such as by communicating a location of the first
robot. The robots include GPS location and are operable to use this
to ensure that they do not collide with one another. A plurality of
aerial robots is operable to create a robot swarm around a threat
to effectively deter the threat. The robot swarm of flying aerial
robot further includes one or more of the aerial robots emitting a
light deterrent and/or sound deterrent.
[0292] In one embodiment, a robot includes a physical deterrent
122, or a deterrent that is carried by the robot and delivered to
the threat, such as being projected at a threat, such as pepper
spray 124, a stunning device 125, a net, a projectile such as a
bullet, a fluid such as a dye or foul smelling fluid. One or more
of the robots, such as an aerial robot is operable to dispense
pepper spray at a threat to effectively deter the threat from
proceeding. When a dye is dispensed by a robot on a threat, the dye
helps authorities to later identify the threat as they leave the
area. A stunning device includes electrodes to deliver an
electrical shock and this disables the threat temporarily. The
robot is operable to project the electrodes at the threat or
deliver the electrodes to the threat, such as by intercepting with
the threat. An aerial robot is operable to fly into the threat with
an electrode armed to deliver the stunning and immobilizing
electric shock. Likewise, a robot is operable to project a net over
a threat. When the threat is disabled by the pepper spray, a
stunning device, or by a net, an administrator and/or the
authorities are contacted by the AI EM system, including directly
by the robot. A very bright light, or flashing light, as well as an
alarm or siren is used as a deterrent that is projected at a
threat, as described herein.
[0293] A robot is operable to be weaponized to do bodily harm and
is configured with a weapon, such as a gun to shoot a projectile
into a threat, or a piercing object, such as a knife or spear. In
one embodiment, a robot is configured to project the bullet, knife
or spear at the threat from a distance, or delivery a projectile to
a threat when they intercept the threat, such as by flying into the
threat. A small charge projects a bullet into the threat when the
aerial robot intercepts the threat. In one embodiment, a knife or
spear is retractable and is deployed prior to intercepting with a
threat.
[0294] The AI EM system is activated when unauthorized persons or
activity is detected by the EM device and/or when inputs are
received by the system (e.g., from a mobile device), smart mobile
device, smart wearable device, or other input device, thereby
enabling monitoring and surveillance by the robot(s) and/or through
the AI EM system or EM device. In one embodiment, the robots are
configured to travel in a programmed path in a routine manner to
provide improved surveillance of the premises. The AI EM system is
operable to program the robot or robots to fly around the building
such as a home every 10 minutes, or have one of the aerial robots
flying in a prescribed path while the other robots remain stationed
on their docking stations based on input received (e.g., via the
user device). The robots are operable to alternate which one is
conducting a surveillance route, such as a surveillance flight path
around a building, for example. Other flight maneuvers are
programmed in as well, such as a deterring and coordinated flight
path by a plurality of aerial robots. An administrator user device
is operable to control when the aerial robots run surveillance and
to direct aerial robots to return to a docking station, such as
when bad weather is approaching.
[0295] Robots are configured to communicate directly with each
other, wherein when a first aerial robot finishes a surveillance
route or flight path, it is operable to communicate with a second
aerial robot which is then operable to fly a surveillance route
before docking and communicating with the first or another, third
aerial robot. The robots also communicate collectively with the
controller or the EM system, and/or an authority, such as the
police when required, such as when an intruder is detected or when
requested by an administrator.
[0296] A robot is configured within a building, such as within a
home and is configured to open an access point, such as the door
for greeting a person or visitor or delivery person. The robot is
operable to produce an audible greeting to the person and this
audible greeting includes a customized greeting as the AI EM system
opens another access point for delivery of a package or give
logistic instruction to the person. The robot is operable to take a
package from the person and deliver the package to an access point
such as to a storage container or inside of the home, behind a door
which is an access point. The robot is configured with a camera to
scan a package including an address, or code, such as a bar or QR
code to determine what the appropriate action should be with
respect to the package. The AI EM system in combination with the
robot(s) is operable to act as a security system around an access
point, such as around a home or storage container.
[0297] Data recorded by the AI EM system including images,
including still and videos, and audio recording captured by the AI
EM device or robot(s) is stored on a SIM card or a local data
storage device, and/or is uploaded to the cloud for safety and
security. The AI EM system is configured to display the recorded
files and to identify a threat and/or a threat's vehicle based on
the recorded files. As described herein, the robots are operable to
be programed to capture images of license plate and/or other
identifying features of a threat or a threat's vehicle.
[0298] The GPS application comprises a device capable of being
tracked by GPS. The device is a mobile device or other device
capable of being tracked by GPS. When the GPS device and the host
device are in proximity, access and/or messaging and logistics is
triggered. The host device is an AI device. The robots include a
GPS application.
[0299] According to another embodiment of the disclosure, access
and/or messaging is triggered when a linked mobile device is within
a predetermined distance of a particular address. In such
embodiment, a host device is not needed.
[0300] According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the MALT
system comprises a transponder device that is positioned at a
specific location, such as a location where a delivery is to be
made. The transponder device is used to identify the location of an
object or location not associated with an address or landmark. This
is particularly useful for rural delivery locations that do not
have a valid or determinable address. For example, the transponder
device is positioned on a mailbox or house where a delivery is to
be made.
[0301] In one embodiment, the transponder device is a GPS
transponder that transmits a signal to a receiver device. The
transponder device is positioned at a particular location, such as
a storage facility, building or house, or on a particular object,
such as a box or container. The receiver device is a GPS-integrated
smartphone with GPS tracking software. The transponder is
positioned at a location where an item is to be delivered. The
receiver smartphone is provided to a delivery person responsible
for delivering the item. The transponder transmits a signal to the
smartphone guiding the delivery person to the transponder.
[0302] The transponder has an identifier number or signal that is
programmed into a device or a master server, or other designated
application. The designated controller device or application
programs the transponder to transmit a signal to one or more
receiving devices, such as a mobile phone or other device,
utilizing GPS capabilities.
[0303] The GPS transponder is operable to serve as a guide to a
specific box, package, location or object that does not have an
association with a GPS address in a mapping application. The
transponder is operable to confirm the correct and appropriate
match with a receiver device when identified. The transponder
serves as a beacon/locator device for deliveries or pickup.
[0304] The system is operable to be used by delivery personnel to
facilitate delivery of an item. The system is operable to be used
by first responders, such as law enforcement officers, fire
fighters and emergency medical personnel, to help them find a
particular location. The system is operable to be used in any
circumstance to help locate a stationary structure or moveable
object.
[0305] The GPS transponder is preferably physically attached to or
built into devices, boxes, or objects. The transponder is reusable
and added and removed for similar uses. The transponder is
disposable.
[0306] The transponder is operable to be utilized to assist a
delivery person locate a specific package or mailbox within a
high-rise building or apartment. The transponder is utilized to
identify or locate a package, mailbox or location when weather or
other conditions interfere with GPS mapping satellites.
[0307] Once the transponder and the receiver establish a match, the
transponder is operable to be reprogrammed to match with other
receivers. The transponder is operable to be programmed to signal
one or more receivers. The transponder utilizes GPS technology to
assist in establishing a relationship with one or more receivers.
The GPS transponder is battery powered or hardwired if at a fixed
location.
[0308] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the system is
used to track the location of a package. The GPS transponder is
fixed to the package and transmits a signal to the receiver
indicating the location of the package.
[0309] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the system
includes a container that is adapted to automatically open when the
receiving device is within a specific range or proximity of the
transponder.
[0310] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, an action is
triggered when the receiver device (e.g., smartphone, smart
wearable device) comes within a certain range or proximity of the
transponder. In one embodiment, the action is a text message
provided to the smartphone, or the event is access granted to the
building where the transponder is located. Access is granted by
unlocking an electronic lock on door of the building.
[0311] In an alternative embodiment, the transponder functions
outside of a GPS network and is independent of GPS. The transponder
utilizes a unique identifier network.
[0312] The AI EM system as disclosed herein is further operable for
security applications including vault security systems, object
security systems, art work security systems, security surveillance
systems, factory security, machine security, and theft protection
systems.
[0313] A secured delivery system and methods of using same are
described above. Various changes can be made to the disclosure
without departing from its scope. The above description of
preferred embodiments of the disclosure is provided for the purpose
of illustration only and not limitation.
[0314] The AI EM system is operable to utilize a plurality of
learning techniques including, but not limited to, machine learning
(ML), artificial intelligence (AI), deep learning (DL), neural
networks (NNs), artificial neural networks (ANNs), support vector
machines (SVMs), Markov decision process (MDP), and/or natural
language processing (NLP). The AI EM system is operable to use any
of the aforementioned learning techniques alone or in combination.
In one embodiment, the AI EM system or device utilizes an
autoregressive language model that uses deep learning such as
Generative Pre-trained Transformer 3 (GPT-3).
[0315] Further, the AI EM system is operable to utilize predictive
analytics techniques including, but not limited to, machine
learning (ML), artificial intelligence (AI), neural networks (NNs)
(e.g., long short term memory (LSTM) neural networks), deep
learning, historical data, and/or data mining to make future
predictions and/or models. The AI EM system is preferably operable
to recommend and/or perform actions based on historical data,
external data sources, ML, AI, NNs, and/or other learning
techniques. The AI EM system is operable to utilize predictive
modeling and/or optimization algorithms including, but not limited
to, heuristic algorithms, particle swarm optimization, genetic
algorithms, technical analysis descriptors, combinatorial
algorithms, quantum optimization algorithms, iterative methods,
deep learning techniques, and/or feature selection techniques.
[0316] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the
invention illustrating a computer system, generally described as
800, having a network 810, a plurality of computing devices 820,
830, 840, a server 850, and a database 870.
[0317] The server 850 is constructed, configured, and coupled to
enable communication over a network 810 with a plurality of
computing devices 820, 830, 840. The server 850 includes a
processing unit 851 with an operating system 852. The operating
system 852 enables the server 850 to communicate through network
810 with the remote, distributed user devices. Database 870 is
operable to house an operating system 872, memory 874, and programs
876.
[0318] In one embodiment of the invention, the system 800 includes
a network 810 for distributed communication via a wireless
communication antenna 812 and processing by at least one mobile
communication computing device 830. Alternatively, wireless and
wired communication and connectivity between devices and components
described herein include wireless network communication such as
WI-FI, WORLDWIDE INTEROPERABILITY FOR MICROWAVE ACCESS (WIMAX),
Radio Frequency (RF) communication including RF identification
(RFID), NEAR FIELD COMMUNICATION (NFC), BLUETOOTH including
BLUETOOTH LOW ENERGY (BLE), ZIGBEE, Infrared (IR) communication,
cellular communication, satellite communication, Universal Serial
Bus (USB), Ethernet communications, communication via fiber-optic
cables, coaxial cables, twisted pair cables, and/or any other type
of wireless or wired communication. In another embodiment of the
invention, the system 800 is a virtualized computing system capable
of executing any or all aspects of software and/or application
components presented herein on the computing devices 820, 830, 840.
In certain aspects, the computer system 800 is operable to be
implemented using hardware or a combination of software and
hardware, either in a dedicated computing device, or integrated
into another entity, or distributed across multiple entities or
computing devices.
[0319] By way of example, and not limitation, the computing devices
820, 830, 840 are intended to represent various forms of electronic
devices including at least a processor and a memory, such as a
server, blade server, mainframe, mobile phone, personal digital
assistant (PDA), smartphone, desktop computer, netbook computer,
tablet computer, workstation, laptop, and other similar computing
devices. The components shown here, their connections and
relationships, and their functions, are meant to be exemplary only,
and are not meant to limit implementations of the invention
described and/or claimed in the present application.
[0320] In one embodiment, the computing device 820 includes
components such as a processor 860, a system memory 862 having a
random-access memory (RAM) 864 and a read-only memory (ROM) 866,
and a system bus 868 that couples the memory 862 to the processor
860. In another embodiment, the computing device 830 is operable to
additionally include components such as a storage device 890 for
storing the operating system 892 and one or more application
programs 894, a network interface unit 896, and/or an input/output
controller 898. Each of the components is operable to be coupled to
each other through at least one bus 868. The input/output
controller 898 is operable to receive and process input from, or
provide output to, a number of other devices 899, including, but
not limited to, alphanumeric input devices, mice, electronic
styluses, display units, touch screens, signal generation devices
(e.g., speakers), or printers.
[0321] By way of example, and not limitation, the processor 860 is
operable to be a general-purpose microprocessor (e.g., a central
processing unit (CPU)), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a
microcontroller, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), an Application
Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array
(FPGA), a Programmable Logic Device (PLD), a controller, a state
machine, gated or transistor logic, discrete hardware components,
or any other suitable entity or combinations thereof that can
perform calculations, process instructions for execution, and/or
other manipulations of information.
[0322] In another implementation, shown as 840 in FIG. 19, multiple
processors 860 and/or multiple buses 868 are operable to be used,
as appropriate, along with multiple memories 862 of multiple types
(e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of
microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a
DSP core).
[0323] Also, multiple computing devices are operable to be
connected, with each device providing portions of the necessary
operations (e.g., a server bank, a group of blade servers, or a
multi-processor system). Alternatively, some steps or methods are
operable to be performed by circuitry that is specific to a given
function.
[0324] According to various embodiments, the computer system 800 is
operable to operate in a networked environment using logical
connections to local and/or remote computing devices 820, 830, 840
through a network 810. A computing device 830 is operable to
connect to a network 810 through a network interface unit 896
connected to a bus 868. Computing devices are operable to
communicate communication media through wired networks,
direct-wired connections or wirelessly, such as acoustic, RF, or
infrared, through an antenna 897 in communication with the network
antenna 812 and the network interface unit 896, which are operable
to include digital signal processing circuitry when necessary. The
network interface unit 896 is operable to provide for
communications under various modes or protocols.
[0325] In one or more exemplary aspects, the instructions are
operable to be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any
combinations thereof. A computer readable medium is operable to
provide volatile or non-volatile storage for one or more sets of
instructions, such as operating systems, data structures, program
modules, applications, or other data embodying any one or more of
the methodologies or functions described herein. The computer
readable medium is operable to include the memory 862, the
processor 860, and/or the storage media 890 and is operable be a
single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed
computer system) that store the one or more sets of instructions
900. Non-transitory computer readable media includes all computer
readable media, with the sole exception being a transitory,
propagating signal per se. The instructions 900 are further
operable to be transmitted or received over the network 810 via the
network interface unit 896 as communication media, which is
operable to include a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave
or other transport mechanism and includes any delivery media. The
term "modulated data signal" means a signal that has one or more of
its characteristics changed or set in a manner as to encode
information in the signal.
[0326] Storage devices 890 and memory 862 include, but are not
limited to, volatile and non-volatile media such as cache, RAM,
ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, FLASH memory, or other solid state memory
technology; discs (e.g., digital versatile discs (DVD), HD-DVD,
BLU-RAY, compact disc (CD), or CD-ROM) or other optical storage;
magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage, floppy
disks, or other magnetic storage devices; or any other medium that
can be used to store the computer readable instructions and which
can be accessed by the computer system 800.
[0327] In one embodiment, the computer system 800 is within a
cloud-based network. In one embodiment, the server 850 is a
designated physical server for distributed computing devices 820,
830, and 840. In one embodiment, the server 850 is a cloud-based
server platform. In one embodiment, the cloud-based server platform
hosts serverless functions for distributed computing devices 820,
830, and 840.
[0328] In another embodiment, the computer system 800 is within an
edge computing network. The server 850 is an edge server, and the
database 870 is an edge database. The edge server 850 and the edge
database 870 are part of an edge computing platform. In one
embodiment, the edge server 850 and the edge database 870 are
designated to distributed computing devices 820, 830, and 840. In
one embodiment, the edge server 850 and the edge database 870 are
not designated for distributed computing devices 820, 830, and 840.
The distributed computing devices 820, 830, and 840 connect to an
edge server in the edge computing network based on proximity,
availability, latency, bandwidth, and/or other factors.
[0329] It is also contemplated that the computer system 800 is
operable to not include all of the components shown in FIG. 19, is
operable to include other components that are not explicitly shown
in FIG. 19, or is operable to utilize an architecture completely
different than that shown in FIG. 19. The various illustrative
logical blocks, modules, elements, circuits, and algorithms
described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein are
operable to be implemented as electronic hardware, computer
software, or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this
interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative
components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been
described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether
such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends
upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on
the overall system. Skilled artisans may implement the described
functionality in varying ways for each particular application
(e.g., arranged in a different order or partitioned in a different
way), but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted
as causing a departure from the scope of the present invention.
[0330] Certain modifications and improvements will occur to those
skilled in the art upon a reading of the foregoing description. The
above-mentioned examples are provided to serve the purpose of
clarifying the aspects of the invention and it will be apparent to
one skilled in the art that they do not serve to limit the scope of
the invention. All modifications and improvements have been deleted
herein for the sake of conciseness and readability but are properly
within the scope of the present invention.
* * * * *